Neoteny (/niːˈɒtᵻni/ /niːˈɒtni/ or /niːˈɒtəni/), also called juvenilization, is one of the two ways by which paedomorphism can arise. Paedomorphism or paedomorphosis is the retention by adults of traits previously seen only in the young, and is a subject studied in the field of developmental biology. Neoteny is found in modern humans. Paedomorphism can also be the retention of larval traits which is commonly studied in salamanders. In neoteny, the physiological (or somatic) development of an organism (typically an animal) is slowed or delayed. In contrast, in progenesis, sexual development occurs faster. Both processes result in paedomorphism, a type of heterochrony. Ultimately this process results in the retention, in the adults of a species, of juvenile physical characteristics well into maturity and pedogenesis (paedogenesis), the reproduction in a neotenized state.
Neoteny is one of three dimensions of heterochrony, or the change in timing of developmental events: acceleration (faster) vs. neoteny (slower), hypermorphosis (further) vs. progenesis (not as far), and predisplacement (begins earlier) vs. postdisplacement (begins later).
Nightwing has stirred and taken to flight
The silence is over, he's shattered the night
No other hunter has the power or the grace
He is the master of this place
Tell every creature of the night
The kill is around the bend
So listen my friend
Nightwing flies again, oh, oh
They say he comes for those whose souls are weak
And call his name upon the wind
The night is cold and thick with mystery
Oh, I can feel his beating wings
Tell every creature of the night
The kill is around the bend
Nightwing flies again, yeah
Tell every creature of the night, yes
The kill is around the bend
Nightwing flies again, oh
Nightwing has stirred and taken to flight
The silence is over, he's shattered the night
Life ain't for giving and forgiving ain't free
No soul will rest while the hunted run free
So tell every creature of the night, yes
The kill is around the bend
Ooh, listen my friend