Class Dicotyledonae, also known as dicots, is a taxonomic class of flowering plants within the division Magnoliophyta or angiosperms. It is one of the two major groups of flowering plants, with the other being Class Monocotyledonae or monocots.
Dicots are characterized by their two cotyledons or seed leaves, which are present in the embryonic stage of the plant. These cotyledons store and provide nourishment to the developing plant until it can perform photosynthesis independently. The leaves of dicots generally have a net-like venation pattern, with veins branching out from the midrib.
Additionally, dicots typically have a taproot system, which consists of a large main root that grows vertically into the soil, with smaller lateral roots branching out from it. This taproot system provides strong anchoring and allows efficient absorption of water and nutrients.
Class Dicotyledonae encompasses a wide range of plants including trees, shrubs, herbs, and some aquatic plants. They exhibit a great diversity of form and function, with variations in leaf structure, flower arrangement, and fruit type.
Dicots are known for their reproductive structures, which usually include four or five sepals and petals, multiple stamens, and one or more pistils. They often produce seeds within a protective ovary that develops into a fruit after fertilization.
Examples of dicots include roses, sunflowers, peas, oak trees, and daisies. With their diverse characteristics and wide distribution across various habitats, dicots play a crucial role in ecosystems as primary producers and serve as a food source for many organisms.
