Ovules

Ovules

Ovules (/ˈoʊvjuːl/; from Latin ovulum meaning small egg) are structures present in seed plants that contain the female reproductive cells. They are an integral part of the Gynoecium, the female reproductive organ of a flower.

Etymology

The term Ovule is derived from the Latin word ovulum, which translates to 'small egg'. This is a reference to the ovule's role in plant reproduction, where it functions similarly to an egg in animal reproduction.

Structure

Ovules are typically composed of a Nucellus (the central part of the ovule, containing the female gametophyte), one or two protective Integuments, and a stalk-like structure called the Funiculus that connects the ovule to the ovary wall.

Function

The primary function of the ovule is to produce and protect the female gametophyte, and ultimately the Embryo Sac after fertilization. The ovule is fertilized by the male Pollen grain, leading to the formation of a Seed.

Related Terms

• Gynoecium: The female reproductive organ of a flower, which contains one or more ovules.
• Nucellus: The central part of the ovule, containing the female gametophyte.
• Integuments: Protective layers surrounding the nucellus in an ovule.
• Funiculus: The stalk-like structure that connects the ovule to the ovary wall.
• Embryo Sac: The female gametophyte, or megagametophyte, which is contained within the ovule and is fertilized by the male pollen grain.
• Pollen: The male reproductive cells in plants, which fertilize the ovule.
• Seed: The result of a fertilized ovule, which contains a plant embryo and nutrients for its growth.

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