CHROMOPLASM Meaning and
Definition
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Chromoplasm is a term used in biology to refer to the cytoplasmic material containing pigments or colorants that are responsible for imparting color to cells or tissues. It is derived from the Greek words "chroma", meaning "color", and "plasma", meaning "substance".
In eukaryotic cells, chromoplasm is present in various forms, depending on the specialized cell type. In plant cells, chromoplasts are responsible for the synthesis and storage of pigments such as carotenoids, which contribute to the vibrant colors of flowers and fruits. Chromoplasts can also be found in algae and some fungi.
In animal cells, chromoplasm can be observed in pigment-containing organelles called chromatophores. These specialized cells are responsible for pigment production, storage, and dispersion. Chromatophores play a crucial role in color-changing adaptations, such as camouflage, communication, or thermoregulation, in various animal species including chameleons, cuttlefish, and some insects.
Chromoplasm is essential for both visual appeal and physiological functions in organisms. It not only provides vivid displays of color but also plays a role in attracting pollinators, warning predators, and even regulating body temperature. The study of chromoplasm helps us better understand the diverse mechanisms underlying coloration and its ecological significance in the animal and plant kingdoms.
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A homogeneous substance containing the chromioles, and with them constituting the chromosome; chromatin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHROMOPLASM
- xhromoplasm
- vhromoplasm
- fhromoplasm
- dhromoplasm
- cgromoplasm
- cbromoplasm
- cnromoplasm
- cjromoplasm
- curomoplasm
- cyromoplasm
- cheomoplasm
- chdomoplasm
- chfomoplasm
- chtomoplasm
- ch5omoplasm
- ch4omoplasm
- chrimoplasm
- chrkmoplasm
- chrlmoplasm
- chrpmoplasm
Etymology of CHROMOPLASM
The word "chromoplasm" originated from the combination of two Greek roots: "chromo" and "plasma".
The Greek word "chromo" (χρώμα) means "color". It is derived from the verb "chrao" (χράω), signifying "to color" or "to stain".
The term "plasma" (πλάσμα) in Greek refers to "something shaped" or "something formed". In biology, it typically refers to the fluid portion of the cell, excluding the cell nucleus.
Therefore, when "chromo" and "plasma" are combined, "chromoplasm" is formed, which can be understood as the colored fluid or substance found within the cell.
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