Coleoptile

Definition

The coleoptile is a protective sheath covering the emerging shoot in monocotyledons, such as grasses. It plays a crucial role in shielding the young shoot as it grows upward through the soil.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coleoptiles are found in monocot plants like wheat, maize, and barley.
2. They protect the plumule (embryonic shoot) during germination.
3. Once the shoot emerges from the soil, the coleoptile stops growing.
4. Coleoptiles are sensitive to light and play a role in phototropism by bending towards light sources.
5. The growth of coleoptiles is regulated by plant hormones such as auxins.

Review Questions

Related terms

Plumule: The embryonic shoot present within a seed that consists of future leaves and stems.

Phototropism:

The orientation or growth movement of a plant in response to light.

Auxins:

A class of plant hormones that regulate various aspects of growth and development, including cell elongation in shoots.