intine

1 9.9

The inner layer of a pollen grain or spore wall that helps protect the inside

noun
/ˈɪnˌtaɪn/

Specialized

: intina

The intine, which is the inner layer of the pollen grain wall, helps to protect the genetic material inside.
intine of pollen

Examples

The intine helps protect the genetic material inside the pollen grain.
Damage to the intine can affect the ability of a spore to germinate.
Scientists studied the structure of the intine to understand how pollen survives harsh conditions.
The intine protects the pollen grain during its development.
Each pollen grain has a tough intine layer.
During fertilization, the intine plays a crucial role in shielding the sperm cells from external elements.
In plant reproduction, the intine is essential as it lines the inside of the pollen grain, facilitating germination.

Surface Forms

intine singular

intines plural

Etymology

Intine comes from the Latin intus, which means 'within'. It names the inner layer of a pollen grain or spore, so the origin helps you remember that the intine is the layer 'inside' the outer wall.