bio-, bi-, -bia, -bial, -bian, -bion, -biont, -bius, -biosis, -bium, -biotic, -biotical

(Greek: life; living, live, alive)

Don’t confuse this element with another bi- which means "two".

The most important things in life are not things.

—Anonymous
bio-oceanography (s) (noun), bio-oceanographies (pl)
The study of the flora (plants) and fauna (animals) of oceans in relation to their marine environments.
bio-organic, bioorganic
1. A reference to describe a carbon-based (organic) compound produced by a living organism or of biological importance.
2. Relating to the composition and biological activity of carbon-based compounds; especially, those of laboratory rather than to biogenic origins.
biopack, biopak
A container used to keep a living organism during space flight and to monitor its physiological functions.
bioparent (s) (noun), bioparents (pl)
A natural parent.
biopesticide
Toxins which have been developed from plants or other living organisms that kill insects.
biophage
An organism that derives the nourishment for its existence from another living organism.
biophagism
Consuming, eating, or destroying other living organisms; a special reference to certain parasites.
biophagous
Feeding on living organisms; a reference to certain parasites.
biophagy
biopharmaceutics
The study of the physical and chemical properties of a drug, and its dosage form, as related to the onset, duration, and intensity of the drug action.
biopharming
Growing pharmaceuticals by using genetically modified plants.

Biopharming, in which genes for pharmacologically active agents are inserted and grown in crops such as potatoes, is a rapidly expanding area.

Similar experiments are also taking place with animals. Genetically altered cows and goats can produce milk containing human proteins that can then be separated from the milk and used for therapeutics.

biophile (s) (noun), biophiles (pl)
1. Someone who has a desire or instinct for self-preservation: A biophile possesses a strong interest in the living world.
2. In biochemistry, any element occurring in living organisms or organic matter: Such biophiles, like carbon, oxygen, or nitrogen are found in living forms of life.
biophilia (s) (noun) (no pl)
1. An natural bond or association between mankind and all living things: Biophilia is considered by some to be the connections humans subconsciously seek with the rest of life.
2. A conviction that there is an emotional connection between humans and other forms of life: Biophilia can include the respect for oneself and the fair and loving treatment of animals.

This word could also apply to the term, "zoophilia", et al.

biophilism
biophily
Quiz If you would like to take a series of self-scoring quizzes over some of the words in this bio- unit, then click this Life, Live, Living Quiz link so you can check your knowledge. You may also try several additional quizzes in this listing.

Related life, live-word units: anima-; -cole; vita-; viva-.