Cutikulális

Cutikulális refers to anything relating to or originating from the cuticle. The cuticle is a protective outer layer. In biology, this term is most commonly used in relation to plants and insects.

In plants, the cuticle is a waxy layer on the epidermis of leaves, stems, and fruits. This cuticulális layer helps to prevent water loss and protect the plant from pathogens. The composition of the plant cuticle varies but typically includes cutin, a complex polymer of fatty acids, and waxes. The thickness and properties of the cuticulális layer can be influenced by environmental factors such as humidity and light intensity.

In insects and other arthropods, the cuticle is the exoskeleton, providing structural support and protection. This cuticulális covering is composed primarily of chitin, a polysaccharide, and proteins. It is a non-cellular layer secreted by the underlying epidermis. Insects molt their cuticulális exoskeleton periodically as they grow, a process known as ecdysis. This cuticulális layer can also be modified into various structures like hairs, spines, and scales.