1. a gamete (reproductive cell) produced by an organism that reproduces through oogamy, typically the larger, stationary female gamete in sexual reproduction.
Usage: biology; technical

Examples

• In algae that practice oogamy, the oogamete is produced within a specialized structure called an oogonium.
• The oogamete remains stationary while the smaller male gamete swims toward it for fertilization.
• Marine organisms often release oogametes into the water column during their breeding season.
• The fusion of an oogamete and a sperm cell initiates the development of a new organism.
• Botanists study oogametes to understand the reproductive strategies of lower plants.