LITHOCARP Meaning and
Definition
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A lithocarp refers to a dry, indehiscent fruit that contains a single seed and possesses a hardened, stony or woody pericarp. It is derived from two key components: 'litho,' meaning stone, and 'carp,' referring to fruit. The term is mainly utilized in botanical contexts to categorize specific types of fruits that have undergone a lignification or hardening process, resulting in a stone-like texture.
Lithocarps are commonly found in various plant families, particularly in species belonging to the Rosaceae family like cherries and plums, where they are known as drupes. However, lithocarps can also be observed in other plant families such as Fabaceae (legume family) and Moraceae (mulberry family). In these cases, the lithocarps may possess additional characteristics specific to each family, such as leguminous pods in the Fabaceae family or fig-like fruits in the Moraceae family.
The hardened pericarp of a lithocarp serves as a protective layer for the enclosed seed, enabling it to withstand adverse environmental conditions and promoting successful seed dispersal. Its hard, stone-like nature makes it mostly resistant to physical damage. As a result, lithocarps tend to be long-lasting and can persist on the plants or ground for extended periods.
In summary, a lithocarp is a fruit with a lignified pericarp that is characterized by its stony or woody texture. These fruits play an essential role in protecting the enclosed seed and are commonly observed in various plant families, including Rosaceae, Fabaceae, and Moraceae.
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A fossil fruit, now usually called a carpolite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LITHOCARP
- kithocarp
- pithocarp
- oithocarp
- luthocarp
- ljthocarp
- lkthocarp
- lothocarp
- l9thocarp
- l8thocarp
- lirhocarp
- lifhocarp
- lighocarp
- liyhocarp
- li6hocarp
- li5hocarp
- litgocarp
- litbocarp
- litnocarp
- litjocarp
Etymology of LITHOCARP
The word "Lithocarp" is derived from Greek roots.
The first part of the word, "litho", comes from the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone" or "rock". This indicates that the word is related to something solid or stony.
The second part of the word, "carp", is derived from the Greek word "karpos", which translates to "fruit" or "seed". It refers to the reproductive structures of plants.
Therefore, "Lithocarp" combines these roots to describe a fruit or seed structure that is stony or rock-like in nature.
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