Nervures is a term commonly used in botany to refer to the veins in leaves. The spelling of this word can be explained with the IPA phonetic transcription as /nɜːvjʊərz/. The first syllable, "ner", is pronounced with the /nɜː/ sound, which is the same as the "er" sound in words like "her" or "fern". The second syllable, "vures", is pronounced with the /vjʊərz/ sound and can be split into two syllables, "view" and "ers". The "v" sound is followed by the "yoo" sound (/jʊ/) and an "ers" sound (/ərz/).
Nervures refer to the branching veins or rib-like structures found in plants, particularly in leaves or wings of insects. The term derives from the Latin word "nervus," meaning "nerve" or "vein." Nervures are prominently visible on the surface of certain leaves, providing support and structure to the leaf and enabling its proper functioning.
These vein-like structures often form a complex network, extending from the midrib to the outer margins of the leaf. They facilitate the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the leaf, playing a vital role in its overall metabolism. Nervures are responsible for the supply and distribution of essential substances required for photosynthesis, respiration, and other physiological processes within the leaf.
In the case of insect wings, nervures serve a similar role as they provide structural support and aid in flight. The branching pattern of nervures in wings varies among different insect species and plays a crucial role in determining their flight capabilities. These intricate patterns of veins also strengthen the wings, preventing them from tearing or losing their shape during flight.
Overall, nervures are essential anatomical features that contribute to the overall functionality and strength of leaves in plants and wings in insects. Their intricate network allows for efficient transportation and support, enabling these structures to fulfill their vital biological functions in the organisms they belong to.
The veins of leaves; the horny stems or tubes which expand the wings of insects.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "nervures" is derived from the French word "nervure", which is a combination of the Latin words "nervus" meaning "nerve" and "ura" meaning "result". "Nervure" refers to the veins or small ribs found in leaves or insect wings, which resemble the pattern of nerves in human bodies. The term "nervures" is the plural form of "nervure", and it is commonly used in the field of botany and entomology to describe these fine branching structures.