Plant Embryology

Question 1

Name the 5 parts of the plant embryo

Answer 1

Seed coat, Epicotyl, Endosperm, Cotyledon, Hypocotyl

Mnemonic: SEECH

Question 2

Seed coat

Answer 2

Develops from the outer covering of the ovule.

Question 3

Epicotyl

Answer 3

Precursor of the upper stem and leaves

Question 4

Endosperm

Answer 4

Grows and feeds the embryo

Question 5

Cotyledons

Answer 5

Seed leaves

Question 6

Hypocotyl

Answer 6

Develops into the lower stem and root

Question 7

Meristem Cells

Answer 7

Embryonic (undifferentiated cells) in higher plants where growth is restricted to. Undergo active cell reproduction and elongate and differentiate into cell type characteristics of the species. Two types of meristem exist:

• apical meristem
• lateral meristem

Question 8

Apical Meristem

Answer 8

Found in the tips of roots and stems. Growth in length only occurs in these points.

Question 9

Lateral Meristem (Cambium)

Answer 9

Found in the xylem and phloem of plants. Permits growth in diameter and can differentiate into new xylem and phloem cells. It is not an active tissue but is predominant in woody plants.

Question 10

Seed Formation

Answer 10

Zygote divides mitotically to form the mass of cells called the embryo.