INVOLUCELS Meaning and
Definition
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Involucels are small bracts or modified leaves that surround and protect the base of a cluster of flowers or a compound inflorescence, typically found in plants belonging to the Apiaceae family. Also known as secondary involucres, involucels serve as a protective covering for the inflorescence.
These structures are typically located below the primary involucre, which is a whorl of bracts that encloses the entire flowering structure. Involucels are usually smaller and more numerous compared to the primary involucre, and they are arranged in a ring around the central flower cluster.
The purpose of involucels is to support and protect the individual flowers within the inflorescence. They help to maintain the structure and prevent damage to the delicate flowers during development. Additionally, involucels may play a role in attracting pollinators by providing contrast in color or shape.
Involucels are often present in umbelliferous plants, such as carrots, parsley, or dill. They can vary in shape, size, and color, depending on the species. The presence and characteristics of involucels can be important for plant identification and classification.
Overall, involucels are specialized leaf structures that act as protective coverings for inflorescences in certain plant families. They play a crucial role in supporting the development and reproduction of flowering plants.
Common Misspellings for INVOLUCELS
- involucells
- involuchels
- involucelles
- involuceles
- involusels
- involuscels
- involuseles
- involucelus
- involussels
Etymology of INVOLUCELS
The word "involucel" is derived from the Latin word "involucrum", which means a covering or envelope. "Involucrum" was originally used in botanical contexts to refer to a protective covering or envelope, typically surrounding a flower cluster or inflorescence. The word "involucel" is a diminutive form of "involucrum", indicating a smaller or secondary protective covering. Involucels are small protective structures that are typically found surrounding individual flowers within a larger cluster or inflorescence.
