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Glite Dictionary
perisperm

perisperm

9.9
Food part in some seeds that surrounds the young plant outside the seed sac
  • noun
  • /ˈpɛrɪˌspɜrm/
  • Specialized
: perisperma
  • The perisperm provides additional nutrients for the developing seedling in some plant species.

Examples

  • In certain seeds, the perisperm can constitute the main storage tissue, replacing the endosperm.

  • Unlike endosperm, perisperm originates from the nucellus tissue in the seed.

  • The perisperm provides essential nutrients to the developing seed.

  • In many plants, the perisperm is crucial for seed viability.

  • In certain seeds, the perisperm serves as the main storage tissue, supplying nutrients to the embryo.

  • The perisperm acts as a source of nourishment for the growing seedling during its early development.

  • Unlike other seed tissues, the perisperm is derived from the nucellar tissue, providing essential nutrients.

Surface Forms

perisperm singular
perisperms plural

Morphology

perisperm = sperm (opaque) = peri + sperm

Although formed from 'peri-' (around) + 'sperm' (seed), both elements are technical combining forms and 'sperm' in common usage refers to the male gamete, so the composition is not helpful for an average B1 learner.

Etymology

The word perisperm comes from the Greek parts peri- meaning 'around' and sperm meaning 'seed'. You can see peri- in perimeter, which also means 'around'. So perisperm is the part 'around the seed' that feeds the young plant.