Cypsela is a botanical term used to describe a type of fruit that is found in plants such as aster and dandelion. The spelling of Cypsela is important because it reflects the pronunciation of the word as well. The proper IPA phonetic transcription for Cypsela is /ˈsɪpsələ/, which indicates that the "cyp" syllable is pronounced like "sip" and the "ela" is pronounced as "uh-luh." This correct spelling and pronunciation ensures that anyone in the field of botany can accurately communicate and understand the term.
A cypsela is a type of dry, one-seeded fruit characteristic of plants in the Asteraceae family or the composite family. It is an achene, meaning it is a small, hard, and indehiscent fruit that does not split open to release its seed. Cypsela fruits are produced by a variety of flowering plants, including daisies, sunflowers, dandelions, and asters.
Typically, a cypsela is derived from a compound ovary called an inferior ovary, which consists of several carpels fused together. After fertilization, the ovary walls thicken and harden, forming a tough outer layer called the pericarp. The pericarp often possesses bristles, scales, or wings that aid in dispersal by wind, animals, or water.
Cypselas are relatively small, ranging in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. They have a single seed enclosed within the hard pericarp, with no endosperm. The seed is usually oblong or elliptical in shape and contains the embryonic plant, which has the potential to develop into a new individual when conditions are favorable.
Cypselas are an important adaptation for plants in the Asteraceae family as they provide protection and aid in the dispersal of their seeds. Due to their hard, durable nature, cypselas have the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions and can remain viable for extended periods. This resilience ensures the long-term survival and successful reproduction of many species within the Asteraceae family.
The word "Cypsela" derives from the Ancient Greek word "kúpsēlos" (κύψηλος), meaning "container" or "box-like vessel". In botany, it refers to a type of fruit known as an "achene", which is a small, dry and indehiscent fruit typically containing a single seed. The term was first used in botanical terminology in the 18th century, inspired by the shape and structure of the fruit.