Monadelph is a botanical term referring to plants that have their stamens united by their filaments into a single, unbranched structure. The pronunciation of the word is /mɒˈnadɛlf/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is spelled with the letter "o" but pronounced as "ɒ". The last syllable "delph" is pronounced as "delf" with an "f" sound instead of "ph". The spelling of the word adheres to standard English pronunciation rules and demonstrates the importance of the International Phonetic Alphabet in accurately transcribing pronunciation.
Monadelph is a botanical term used to describe a specific type of flower structure found in plants. More specifically, it refers to the condition where the stamens (the male reproductive organs of a flower) are fused or united into a single group or tube. The term "monadelph" is derived from the Greek words "monos" meaning "single" and "adelphos" meaning "brother," highlighting the idea of the stamens being united as a single brotherhood.
In plants with a monadelphous arrangement, the filaments (the stalk-like part of the stamen) of the individual stamens are fused together along their length, forming a tube or column. This fusion can occur at different heights or levels along the length of the filaments. Most commonly, the filaments are united near their base, while the anthers (the pollen-bearing part of the stamen) remain free. This results in the formation of a single structure that resembles a tube or column of stamens.
Monadelphous flowers are widespread among various plant families, including the legumes (Fabaceae), such as peas and beans. This structural adaptation can have several advantages, including enhanced pollen transfer as the united stamens create a large pollination surface. Additionally, monadelphous flowers often feature distinct visual characteristics that attract pollinators, contributing to successful reproduction in these plants.
Overall, monadelph refers to the fused or united arrangement of stamens in a flower, forming a single tube or column-like structure.
One of the monadelphia.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "monadelph" is derived from two Greek roots: "monos" meaning "single" or "alone", and "adelphos" meaning "brother". The term was coined by combining these roots to describe a specific feature observed in certain plant species, where the stamens (the male reproductive organs) are fused together by their filaments into a single unit called a monadelphous stamen. The term was later extended to describe a botanical subclassification for these types of stamens and their associated plant families.