Capsule (fruit)
Capsule (fruit)
A Capsule (pronounced: /ˈkæpsjuːl/) is a type of simple fruit produced by many species of flowering plants.
Etymology
The term "capsule" comes from the Latin capsula, a diminutive form of capsum, which means "box".
Description
A capsule is a structure composed of two or more carpels. In a capsule, the carpels are joined together with a clear separation from each other, a feature that distinguishes it from other types of fruits. The term "capsule" is also used to describe the spore-producing structures of mosses and liverworts.
Types of Capsules
There are several types of capsules, depending on how the carpels are joined and how the capsule opens to release the seeds. These include:
- Loculicidal capsules, which split along the cavities bearing the seeds.
- Septicidal capsules, which split along the partitions between the seeds.
- Poricidal capsules, which have openings through which the seeds are released.
Related Terms
- Dehiscence: The process by which capsules and other fruits release their seeds.
- Fruit: The mature ovary of a flowering plant.
- Seed: The fertilized, mature ovule of a flowering plant.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Capsule (fruit)
- Wikipedia's article - Capsule (fruit)
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