Kotiledoni

Kotiledoni, also known as cotyledons, are the first leaves that emerge from the seed of a plant. They are typically found in the embryo of a seed and serve as a source of food for the developing plant until it can produce its own leaves through photosynthesis. Cotyledons are a characteristic feature of many plant species, including monocots and dicots, and their number and structure can vary widely.

In monocots, such as grasses and lilies, the cotyledons are usually linear or strap-shaped and are often referred to as scutellum. In dicots, the cotyledons can be more diverse in shape and size, ranging from simple to compound and even lobed. The number of cotyledons can also differ; some plants have one cotyledon (monocotyledonous), while others have two (dicotyledonous).

Cotyledons play a crucial role in the early stages of plant development. They store nutrients and provide energy for the seedling to grow and establish itself. Once the seedling emerges from the soil, the cotyledons may persist as storage organs or may be absorbed by the plant, depending on the species.

The study of cotyledons is important in botany and plant biology, as they provide insights into the evolutionary relationships between different plant groups and the mechanisms of seed development and germination. Cotyledons are also of interest in agriculture, as they can influence the nutritional quality and yield of crops.