Tendril
Tendril
Tendril (/ˈtɛndrɪl/), from the Latin word tendere, meaning "to stretch", is a specialized stem, leaf or petiole with a threadlike shape that is used by climbing plants for support, attachment and cellular invasion by parasitic plants, generally by twining around suitable hosts found by touch.
Etymology
The term "tendril" originates from the Latin word tendere, which translates to "to stretch". This is in reference to the tendril's ability to stretch and twine around objects to provide support for the plant.
Function
Tendrils serve a key role in the survival and growth of certain types of plants. They are used by climbing plants, such as grapevines, peas, and cucumbers, to attach to and climb up surfaces. Tendrils are sensitive to touch and will wrap around objects they come into contact with, providing the plant with support and allowing it to grow upwards towards the light.
Structure
Tendrils are typically slender and threadlike in shape, and are a type of morphological adaptation that has evolved in certain plant species to aid in their growth and survival. They are a type of stem, leaf or petiole that has been modified for the purpose of climbing.
Related Terms
- Climbing plant: A plant that climbs up structures or other plants for support.
- Morphological adaptation: Changes in the physical form and structure of an organism in response to changes in its environment.
- Stem: The main structural part of a plant that supports leaves, flowers, and fruits, and serves as a conduit for water, nutrients, and sugars.
- Leaf: The primary photosynthetic organ of a plant.
- Petiole: The stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the stem.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tendril
- Wikipedia's article - Tendril
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