ABSCISSION LAYER Meaning and
Definition
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An abscission layer refers to a specialized plant tissue that is formed at the base of certain plant structures, such as leaves, flowers, or fruits, to facilitate their natural detachment from the parent plant. Also known as the separation or shedding zone, the abscission layer plays a crucial role in the shedding process known as abscission.
The abscission layer consists of a thin layer of cork cells that form a protective barrier between the plant's stem and the detached part. These cork cells have suberin deposits, a waxy substance that helps seal the wound and prevent pathogen entry. Beneath the cork cells, there are layers of specialized parenchyma cells responsible for cell separation.
Abscission is a vital physiological process in plants, primarily occurring in response to environmental stimuli such as changes in temperature, daylight hours, or drought conditions. Hormonal signals, such as ethylene, are thought to trigger the formation of the abscission layer. These signals cause the specialized cells in the abscission layer to undergo structural changes, leading to the degradation of cell walls and the formation of the cork layer.
The abscission layer allows the plant to shed unnecessary or damaged structures, aiding in their survival, reproduction, and energy conservation. For example, during autumn, the abscission layer plays a significant role in deciduous trees by allowing the detachment of their leaves, conserving water and nutrients during colder months. In agriculture, understanding and manipulating the abscission layer can be crucial for crops like fruits where controlled shedding is desirable for optimal harvest and post-harvest management.
Common Misspellings for ABSCISSION LAYER
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Etymology of ABSCISSION LAYER
The word "abscission layer" has its etymology rooted in the Latin language. The term "abscission" is derived from the Latin word "abscissio", which means "a cutting off" or "a separation". Meanwhile, "layer" comes from the Old English word "laegere", meaning "a stratum" or "a bed". Hence, when combined, "abscission layer" refers to the specific layer of cells in a plant that facilitate the separation or cutting off of leaves, fruits, or other parts from the plant.
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