Hypermorphosis

(hyperspecialization), a type of phylogenetic development leading to disruption of the relationship of an organism to its environment as a result of hypertrophy of certain organs. Examples of hypermorphosis are the upper canine teeth of the fossil saber-toothed tiger (Machairodus), the horns of the giant reindeer, and the tusks of the contemporary boar (the babirusa). A frequent case of hypermorphosis is the general enlargement of body dimensions, resulting in disruption of the coordination of certain organs. Hypermorphosis indicates a lag in the evolution of the organism to adapt to changes in the conditions of its existence. When there is considerable manifestation of hypermorphosis, the consequence is extinction.