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Glite Dictionary
Arabidopsis lyrata

Arabidopsis lyrata

8.7
A small wild plant with white flowers often used in genetic studies
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Arabidopsis lyrata
  • Arabidopsis lyrata is frequently used in genetic studies due to its close relation to Arabidopsis thaliana.

Examples

  • Unlike its relative, Arabidopsis lyrata prefers open, rocky habitats in northern regions.

  • Researchers have found that Arabidopsis lyrata exhibits natural variation in drought resistance.

  • The Arabidopsis lyrata is often used in genetic studies.

  • Researchers are studying Arabidopsis lyrata for its unique traits.

  • Arabidopsis lyrata is a popular model organism in plant genetics because of its ease of cultivation and clear genetic traits.

  • The cross-pollination of Arabidopsis lyrata produces diverse offspring, making it valuable for research in evolutionary biology.

  • Scientists often choose Arabidopsis lyrata for experiments due to its small size and adaptability to various environments.

Surface Forms

Arabidopsis lyrata singular
Arabidopsis lyratas plural

Morphology

Arabidopsis + lyrata

This is a Latin binomial taxonomic name functioning as a proper label rather than a compositional phrase: knowing 'Arabidopsis' may indicate a plant genus, but 'lyrata' is not an English lexical item and does not transparently convey the species' characteristics. Because the expression serves as a specific scientific name (label) and the detailed meaning (small cross-pollinating research plant with white flowers) cannot be derived from the parts by a B1 learner, it is opaque.

Etymology

The plant Arabidopsis lyrata has a name that gives a clear picture: the second part, lyrata, means 'lyre-shaped', like a small harp, because some of its leaves look a bit like a lyre. Scientists often 'use' Arabidopsis lyrata in plant research because it is closely 'related to' Arabidopsis thaliana, so the name helps you remember it as a small, lyre-leaved research plant.