GYMNOSPORE Meaning and
Definition
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A gymnospore refers to a type of spore produced by certain groups of organisms, particularly fungi and some ferns. The term "gymno" means naked, implying that these spores lack a protective covering or outer layer. Gymnospores are typically single-celled structures that serve as a reproductive unit, allowing organisms to disperse and reproduce.
In fungi, gymnospores are commonly found in groups such as the Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes. These spores are formed within specialized structures called sporangia, and they are released into the environment when mature. Unlike the more complex spores found in some other fungal groups, gymnospores lack additional layers or appendages, and they are exposed directly to the external environment. This lack of a protective covering makes gymnospores reliant on environmental factors like wind or water for dispersal.
In some ferns, particularly those belonging to the family Ophioglossaceae, the term gymnospore is used to describe spores released by these plants. These spores are typically formed within the sporangia found on the underside of the fern fronds. Similar to fungal gymnospores, these spores lack an outer layer or covering and rely on external agents for dispersal.
Overall, gymnospores are crucial for the life cycle of certain fungi and ferns as they enable these organisms to reproduce and propagate through the environment, ultimately ensuring their survival and genetic diversity.
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A nonsexual spore not protected by a chitinous envelope.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A naked spore-applied to the spores of acotyledonous plants when they are developed outside the cell in which they are produced.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GYMNOSPORE
- gymnospoze
- gymnospove
- gymnospope
- gymnospose
- gymnosporu
- gymnosporm
- gymnospora
- gymnosporg
- gymknowspore
- gymnospoar
- gymnospoare
- gymnospoor
- gymnospour
- g ymnospore
- gy mnospore
- gym nospore
- gymn ospore
- gymno spore
- gymnospo re
- gymnospor e
Etymology of GYMNOSPORE
The word "gymnospore" is derived from two Greek roots: "gymno" and "spora".
1. "Gymno" (γυμνός) means "naked" or "bare" in Greek.
2. "Spora" (σπορά) means "seed" or "spore" in Greek.
Combining these two roots, "gymnospore" refers to a type of spore that is naked or exposed, lacking a protective covering or structure.
The term is often encountered in the context of plants, where it describes certain types of spores found in plants that are not enclosed within a sporangium or protective structure. Typically, gymnosperms (a group of seed-bearing plants) are associated with gymnosporous spores, which are released directly into the environment without any protective covering.
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