calyptra
1
9.9
A small cap of a plant that covers a flower or developing spores, for example in poppies
- noun
- /kəˈlɪp.trə/
- Specialized
:
cápsula
- In the California poppy, the calyptra falls off as the flower blooms.
Examples
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The calyptra protects the delicate buds of the California poppy.
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The calyptra of the moss protects its developing spores from drying out.
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Botanists examined the calyptra under a microscope to study its cellular structure.
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In botany, a calyptra serves as a protective covering.
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The calyptra of the California poppy protects its delicate reproductive organs from the elements.
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During my hike, I noticed the calyptra remained intact, shielding the flower's buds from the rain.
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The calyptra fell away as the flower bloomed, revealing the vibrant petals underneath.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Calyptra comes from the Greek word kalyptra, which means 'veil' or 'cover'. So in botany a calyptra is a small cap or hood that 'veils' and protects the flower parts or moss spores.