Mesocarp

Definition

The mesocarp is the fleshy middle layer of a fruit's pericarp, located between the outer exocarp and the inner endocarp. It is typically the part of the fruit that is eaten and can vary in texture and thickness depending on the type of fruit.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The mesocarp is crucial in protecting seeds within the fruit during development.
2. In many fruits, like peaches and cherries, the mesocarp is juicy and edible, providing nutrients to animals that aid in seed dispersal.
3. The thickness of the mesocarp can influence how a fruit ripens and its overall texture; for example, mangoes have thick, fleshy mesocarps.
4. During pollination and fertilization, hormones promote the growth of the mesocarp as part of fruit development.
5. Different fruits exhibit variations in their mesocarps; for instance, in citrus fruits like oranges, it forms a spongy layer.

Review Questions

Related terms

pericarp:

The entire outer layer of a fruit formed from the ovary wall after fertilization.

exocarp:

The outermost layer of a fruit's pericarp, often referred to as the skin or peel.

endocarp:

The innermost layer of a fruit's pericarp that directly surrounds the seeds.