The word "antipodal cell" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription system as /ænˈtɪpədəl sɛl/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound, followed by a stressed "i" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with the short "u" sound, followed by an unstressed "d" sound, and finally, the last syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound and an "l" sound. "Antipodal cell" refers to a specialized cell found in the female reproductive structures of flowering plants.
Antipodal cell refers to a specialized type of cell found in the female reproductive organs of flowering plants. These cells are an integral part of the embryo sac, which is the structure that houses the female gametes (eggs) and is involved in the process of sexual reproduction in plants.
The antipodal cells are located at the opposite end of the embryo sac from the egg cells and are usually present in groups of three. They are characterized by their distinct morphology and position within the sac. Antipodal cells are typically relatively large in size compared to other cells in the embryo sac and often have irregular shapes.
The precise function of antipodal cells in plant reproduction is not fully understood, but they are believed to play a role in the development and nourishment of the growing embryo. It is speculated that antipodal cells may provide nutrients and support to the developing embryo, possibly by acting as a storage site for reserves or by facilitating the absorption of nutrients from surrounding tissues.
Overall, antipodal cells are a crucial component of the female reproductive system in plants and are thought to contribute to the success of sexual reproduction by providing necessary resources and support for embryo development.
One of two cells formed from the nuclei at the base of the embryo sac in a seed, opposite the nuclei forming the oospore.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "antipodal" derives from the Greek words "anti", meaning opposite, and "pous", meaning foot. The term "antipodal cell" originates from the field of botany and refers to a group of cells present in the embryo sacs of flowering plants. These cells are located at the opposite end of the embryo sac from the egg cell. The term "antipodal" is used to describe their position as they are situated at the "opposite foot" of the embryo sac in relation to the egg cell.