PERICARPIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Pericarpium is a botanical term used to describe the outer layer of a fruit, which develops from the ovary wall of a flowering plant after pollination and fertilization. It is the protective covering of the seed or seeds within a fruit. The pericarpium consists of three main layers: the exocarp, mesocarp, and endocarp.
The exocarp is the outermost layer of the pericarpium, often forming the skin or rind of the fruit. It provides a protective barrier against physical damage, insects, and microorganisms. The exocarp may have various textures and colors, depending on the specific fruit.
Beneath the exocarp lies the mesocarp, which is the middle layer of the pericarpium. The mesocarp is typically fleshy and contributes to the fruit's overall texture and taste. It often contains juicy cells that store nutrients and attract animals for seed dispersal.
The innermost layer of the pericarpium is the endocarp. This layer surrounds the seeds and helps to protect them from external threats. The endocarp can be hard and stony, as seen in fruits like peaches or cherries, or it can be thin and papery, as seen in fruits like peanuts or beans.
Overall, the pericarpium plays a crucial role in the development, protection, and dispersal of seeds in flowering plants. It provides structural support and offers a barrier against herbivory, dehydration, and other environmental stresses. The diversity in pericarpium characteristics among different fruits contributes to the wide range of appearances, textures, and flavors that we observe in various edible fruits.
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That which surrounds or encloses the seed of a plant; the part of the fruit immediately investing the seed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERICARPIUM
- oericarpium
- lericarpium
- -ericarpium
- 0ericarpium
- pwricarpium
- psricarpium
- pdricarpium
- prricarpium
- p4ricarpium
- p3ricarpium
- peeicarpium
- pedicarpium
- peficarpium
- peticarpium
- pe5icarpium
- pe4icarpium
- perucarpium
- perjcarpium
- perkcarpium
- perocarpium
Etymology of PERICARPIUM
The word "pericarpium" comes from the Latin word "pericarpium", which itself is derived from the Greek word "perikarpion".
In Greek, "peri" means "around" or "near", and "karpion" means "fruit". In Latin, the same meanings apply, where "peri" refers to "around" or "about", and "carpium" denotes "fruit".
Therefore, the word "pericarpium" literally translates to "around or near the fruit" or "fruit covering". It is a botanical term used to describe the outer layer or wall that surrounds and protects the seed(s) within a fruit.
