IV Seedling Growth 37 What is epigeal seedling growth 38 Wha

IV. Seedling Growth

37. What is epigeal seedling growth?

38. What is hypogeal seedling growth?

Solution

Epi and hypo signify above and under as their literal meaning.

Epigeal: In epigeal germination, hypocotyl elongates and forms a hook. Hypocotyl extends and the cotyledons and apical meristem are pushed out of the ground. After reaching the surface, the cotyledons and the shoot tip are pulled up into the air. Here, the cotyledons become photosynthetic and are also called seed leaves, examples are tamarind, papaya and beans.

Hypogeal: In hypogeal germination, the epicotyl elongates and forms the hook and the cotyledons stay in the ground. The cotyledons eventually decompose and provide a food source for the growing plant. The leaves start to form from the plumule and are also called as true leaves. Examples are peas, gram, mango and faba bean.