Companion Cell – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is a Companion Cell? Companion cells are specialized plant cells that are closely associated with sieve elements in the phloem tissue. They are found in angiosperms, which are flowering plants, and play a crucial role in the transport of sugars and other nutrients throughout the plant. Companion cells are connected to sieve elements by … Read more

Propagation – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is Propagation? Propagation is the process of reproducing plants through various methods to create new plants. This can be done through seeds, cuttings, division, grafting, or tissue culture. Propagation is essential for the growth and maintenance of plant populations, as it allows for the expansion of plant species and the preservation of genetic diversity. … Read more

Chloroplast – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is a chloroplast? A chloroplast is a specialized organelle found in plant cells and some algae. It is responsible for carrying out photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, a green pigment that captures light energy and converts it into chemical energy. This energy is then used to … Read more

Necrosis – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is Necrosis? Necrosis is a type of cell death that occurs in plants when cells are damaged or injured beyond repair. It is a common response to various stress factors such as extreme temperatures, nutrient deficiencies, pathogens, toxins, or physical damage. Necrosis is characterized by the premature death of cells, leading to the breakdown … Read more

Species Complex – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is a species complex? A species complex refers to a group of closely related species that are difficult to distinguish from one another due to overlapping characteristics and genetic similarities. These species complexes often arise when multiple species have diverged from a common ancestor but still share many common traits. The boundaries between individual … Read more

Canopy Shyness – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is Canopy Shyness? Canopy shyness, also known as crown shyness or canopy disengagement, is a phenomenon observed in some tree species where the uppermost branches and leaves of neighboring trees do not touch or overlap each other. Instead, there is a distinct gap or boundary between the canopies of adjacent trees, creating a visually … Read more