ABSCISSION Meaning and
Definition
-
Abscission is a biological process through which plants shed or detach a part of their structure, such as leaves, fruits, flowers, or stems. It is a naturally occurring process that enables plants to adapt to changing environments and conserve resources for survival. The word "abscission" is derived from the Latin word "abscissio," meaning cutting off.
During abscission, a specialized layer of cells known as the abscission zone forms at the base of the structure to be shed. This zone weakens and eventually severs the connection between the plant and the structure. The process is regulated by hormones, primarily ethylene, which triggers a sequence of cellular events leading to the detachment. These events include the degradation of cell walls, breakdown of vascular tissue, and sealing of the wound to prevent excessive water loss and infections.
Abscission is a vital part of a plant's life cycle, as it helps conserve energy and resources. It allows plants to shed old, damaged, or diseased structures and replace them with new ones. In deciduous plants, abscission occurs during the autumn season, leading to the loss of leaves. This phenomenon is crucial for survival during winter when the plant's metabolic activity is reduced.
Additionally, abscission plays a role in the dispersal of fruits and seeds. Through this process, plants ensure the propagation and survival of their species by spreading their reproductive structures away from the parent plant, increasing their chances of germination and growth in new locations. Abscission is an intricate biological mechanism that contributes significantly to the life cycle and adaptation of plants.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ABSCISSION
Etymology of ABSCISSION
The word "abscission" comes from the Latin word "abscissio", which is the past participle of the verb "abscindere". In Latin, "abscindere" means "to cut off". The term "abscission" entered the English language in the early 17th century and refers to the natural or intentional process of cutting off or shedding leaves, flowers, or fruits from a plant.
Similar spelling words for ABSCISSION
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
