What is Plumule?
The plumule is found in the seedling rather than the seed. It is located at the tip of epicotyl and acts as the embryonic shoot. As the seed germinates and the shoot emerges, the plumule begins its upward growth towards the surface. The plumule develops into the stem, leaves, and the entire aerial part of the plant which is known as the shoot. It plays an important role in photosynthesis, as the leaves produced by the plumule capture sunlight and convert it into energy. Also, the plumule is responsible for the overall growth and development of the plant above the ground. It is less whitish in colour. Plumules show positive phototropism, negative hydrotropism, and negative geotropism. Coleoptile is the hollow foliar structure that surrounds the plumule.
Characteristics of Plumule
- Location: At the tip of Epicotyl.
- Function: Gives rise to aerial parts of the plant (stem, leaves, flowers) involved in photosynthesis.
- Morphology: Small, compact structure with tightly folded leaves.
- Growth: Apical growth with the primary shoot elongating upward and producing leaves.
- Development: Forms the main shoot system of the plant.
Difference Between Radicle and Plumule
The Radicle and Plumule are two components of a plant’s embryo that play important roles in the growth and development of a plant. The major difference between these two is that Radicle develops into the root while Plumule develops into the shoot. The radicle serves as the embryonic root and is responsible for anchoring the plant and absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, while the plumule acts as the embryonic shoot, giving rise to the stem, leaves, and aerial parts of the plant which help in photosynthesis. Understanding the differences between radicle and plumule helps us to understand the complex processes involved in the earlier stages of plant development.
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