CHROMOPLASTID Meaning and
Definition
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A chromoplastid is a specialized type of plastid found in the cells of plants, algae, and some types of fungi. These plastids are responsible for the synthesis and storage of various pigments, primarily carotenoids, which contribute to the vibrant colors observed in many fruits, flowers, and leaves.
Chromoplastids are derived from undifferentiated proplastids and can be formed either de novo or by modifications of pre-existing plastids. They possess a complex internal structure with an organized network of membranes and plastoglobuli, small lipid droplets containing specialized enzymes involved in pigment synthesis and metabolism.
These organelles play a crucial role in plants' adaptation to the environment, as they help attract pollinators, signal ripeness, and provide protection against harmful UV radiation. Their different pigmentation patterns give rise to a wide range of hues, including red, yellow, and orange.
Chromoplastids are most commonly found in ripening fruits and flowers, where they convert chloroplasts into pigmented plastids. However, they can also be present in non-photosynthetic tissues such as roots, stems, and tubers. In addition to carotenoids, chromoplastids may also store other compounds such as lipid-soluble vitamins and phytohormones.
Understanding the structure and function of chromoplastids is essential in fields like agriculture and food science, as it helps enhance fruit quality, improve nutritional value, and develop novel natural colorants.
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1. A pigmented plastid, containing chlorophyl, formed in certain protozoans. 2. A colored plastid in plant cells, containing some other pigment than chlorophyl.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHROMOPLASTID
- xhromoplastid
- vhromoplastid
- fhromoplastid
- dhromoplastid
- cgromoplastid
- cbromoplastid
- cnromoplastid
- cjromoplastid
- curomoplastid
- cyromoplastid
- cheomoplastid
- chdomoplastid
- chfomoplastid
- chtomoplastid
- ch5omoplastid
- ch4omoplastid
- chrimoplastid
- chrkmoplastid
- chrlmoplastid
Etymology of CHROMOPLASTID
The word "chromoplastid" is derived from Greek roots. "Chromo" comes from the Greek word "chroma", meaning color, and "plastid" is derived from the Greek word "plastós", which means molded or shaped. In biochemistry, a "chromoplastid" refers to a type of plastid found in plant cells that is responsible for synthesizing and storing pigments, giving rise to various colors in plants.
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