METEMBRYO Meaning and
Definition
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Metembryo is a term predominantly used in the field of botany and embryology to describe a particular stage of embryonic development in plants. It refers to the internal structure formed within the seed during germination, prior to the formation of the true embryo. The metembryo contains certain structures that are crucial for the early development of the plant.
In a metembryo, the initial organization of cells and tissues occurs, giving rise to the future plant structures like the root, stem, and leaves. It acts as a precursor to the full development of the embryo. This stage is characterized by the presence of a radicle or embryonic root, which is responsible for anchoring the plant and absorbing nutrients from the soil.
The metembryo is formed when the seed imbibes water, triggers metabolic processes, and initiates the growth of the embryo. This process is also referred to as the process of embryogenesis. During this stage, various cellular and biochemical changes take place, leading to the formation of different tissues and organs that will ultimately make up the plant.
Understanding the metembryonic stage is essential for researchers studying plant development and for farmers cultivating crops. It helps in identifying abnormalities or malformations, as well as provides insights into the genetic and environmental factors impacting plant growth. By comprehending the metembryo, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms governing plant development and potentially improve crop productivity and quality.
Common Misspellings for METEMBRYO
- metaembryo
- metembreo
- metambyo
- metambrayo
- metembrayo
- meteambryo
- metembyo
- metaembyo
Etymology of METEMBRYO
The word "metembryo" is derived from two Greek roots: "meta" and "embryon".
The prefix "meta" in Greek means "change", "beyond", or "transformation". It is often used to denote a change in state or position.
The word "embryon" (also spelled "embryo") comes from the Greek word "embryon", which means "unborn or unhatched offspring". In biology, it generally refers to the early stage of development of a multicellular organism, prior to its birth, hatching, or germination.
When combined, "meta" and "embryon" form the word "metembryo", which can be understood as a stage of embryonic development that has undergone a change, transformation, or further development.
