Monocots

Monocots

Monocots or Monocotyledons (pronounced: /ˌmɒnəˈkɒtɪliːdən/) are a significant group of flowering plants classified under the botanical class Liliopsida.

Etymology

The term "Monocotyledon" is derived from the Greek words "mono" meaning "one" and "kotyledon" meaning "seed leaf". This refers to the single embryonic leaf in the seed of monocots.

Characteristics

Monocots are characterized by having one embryonic seed leaf or cotyledon. Other distinguishing features include parallel leaf veins, flowers in multiples of three, and fibrous root systems.

Examples

Common examples of monocots include orchids, palms, lilies, and grasses. Many important crops such as rice, wheat, and corn are also monocots.

Classification

Monocots are one of the two major groups of flowering plants, the other being the dicots or dicotyledons. They are classified under the class Liliopsida in the Angiosperms division.

Economic Importance

Monocots have significant economic importance. Many of the world's staple foods, such as rice, wheat, and corn, are monocots. They also include economically important plants like sugarcane, banana, onion, and garlic.

Related Terms

• Angiosperms: The larger group to which monocots belong.
• Cotyledon: The embryonic leaf in seed-bearing plants.
• Dicots: The other major group of flowering plants.

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