MEGASPORE Meaning and
Definition
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A megaspore refers to a specialized type of spore that is produced by certain plants as part of their reproductive process. It is a large, non-flagellated spore that typically develops into a female gametophyte. The term "mega" in megaspore denotes its comparatively larger size compared to microspores, which are smaller and give rise to male gametophytes.
Megaspores are produced within structures called megasporangia, which are typically found within the reproductive organs of plants known as sporophytes. These structures protect and nurture the developing megaspores. The megasporangia are commonly found in the ovaries of flowering plants or within cones of gymnosperms.
Once a megaspore is released, it undergoes a series of cellular divisions, leading to the formation of a multicellular structure called the female gametophyte or embryo sac. This gametophyte houses the female reproductive cells or egg cells. Fertilization usually occurs when pollen, containing the male reproductive cells or sperm cells, lands on the female gametophyte, leading to the formation of an embryo and eventually a new plant.
Megaspores play a vital role in the reproduction and genetic diversity of plants. They enable the development of female reproductive structures, allowing for the fusion of genetic material from both male and female gametophytes. The successful development of megaspores and subsequent reproductive processes is crucial for the propagation and survival of many plant species.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MEGASPORE
- negaspore
- kegaspore
- jegaspore
- mwgaspore
- msgaspore
- mdgaspore
- mrgaspore
- m4gaspore
- m3gaspore
- mefaspore
- mevaspore
- mebaspore
- mehaspore
- meyaspore
- metaspore
- megzspore
- megsspore
- megwspore
- megqspore
Etymology of MEGASPORE
The word "megaspore" is derived from two parts: "mega-" and "spore".
1. "Mega-" is a combining form of Greek origin meaning "large" or "great". It is used in various scientific terms to indicate something of significant size or magnitude.
2. "Spore" comes from the Greek word "spora", which means "seed" or "sowing". In biology, a spore refers to a reproductive structure that allows certain organisms to reproduce and spread.
Putting the two parts together, "megaspore" refers to a type of spore that is relatively larger in size compared to others. It is typically seen in plants, especially in the reproductive structures of certain seed-bearing plants like gymnosperms and angiosperms.
Similar spelling words for MEGASPORE
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