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Glite Dictionary
peristome

peristome

1 9.9
The ring of tiny toothlike parts around a moss capsule opening that help release spores
  • noun
  • /ˈpɛrəˌstoʊm/
  • Specialized
: peristoma
  • The peristome surrounds the mouth of the pitcher and is often adorned with vibrant colors.

Examples

  • Under the microscope, the peristome appears as a series of tiny, toothlike structures.

  • The peristome regulates the release of spores from the moss capsule.

  • Botanists often examine the peristome to identify different species of moss.

  • The peristome of the moss capsule is often brightly colored.

  • Some species of moss have a distinct peristome structure.

  • The peristome of the moss capsule is lined with tiny structures that help in spore dispersal.

  • In some carnivorous plants, the peristome plays an important role in attracting and trapping insects.

Surface Forms

peristome singular
peristomes plural

Morphology

peristome = stoma (semi-transparent) = peri + stoma

Formed from the combining form 'peri-' (around) and 'stoma' (mouth); the structure is clear in technical/biological contexts but the morphemes are specialized and not obvious to general B1 learners.

Etymology

Peristome comes from the Greek parts peri- ('around') and stoma ('mouth'), so it literally means the 'edge around the mouth'. Think of peri- like in perimeter; in mosses and similar plants this 'edge' is a ring of tiny, toothlike parts that help control the release of spores, which is why scientists call it a peristome.