monomeereilles

Monomeereilles is a term chiefly used in speculative biology and certain science fiction writings to describe a hypothetical class of modular, multi-cellular organisms built from repeating units called monomeeres. In this framework, an individual organism does not depend on a fixed internal organ plan; instead, its form and capabilities arise from the number, arrangement, and interaction of identical modules along a body axis.

A typical monomeereille is envisaged as a chain or lattice of uniform modules. Each monomeere contributes basic functions such as support, nutrient uptake, locomotion, or reproduction, with specialization emerging only through differential activation or boundary effects between adjacent modules. Growth occurs by adding monomeeres at one or more termini, allowing rapid changes in size and shape. Because modules are functionally similar, the boundary between organism and colonial assembly can blur, raising questions about individuality and unit of selection in evolutionary contexts.

In fiction and thought experiments, monomeereilles are used to explore modularity, evolvability, and developmental constraints. Advocates stress that the concept can illustrate how complex forms may evolve from simple repeating units, while skeptics point out the lack of empirical precedent in known life on Earth. There is no recognition of monomeereilles as a real taxonomic group in biology; it remains a theoretical construct.

Etymology: the name combines a prefix implying singularity (mono-) with a coined suffix intended to evoke small, discrete units. The plural form monomeereilles mirrors regular French-inspired pluralization in scientific coinages.

Note: The term appears primarily in speculative literature and is not part of formal biological nomenclature.