egzokarp

Egzokarp, or exocarp, is the outermost layer of the pericarp of a fruit, derived from the epidermis of the ovary. It serves as the protective outer skin or rind and varies considerably in thickness and texture across species.

The exocarp is mainly composed of epidermal cells with a cuticle and often contains pigments, waxes, or aromatic oils. In many fleshy fruits, the egzokarp is the part we normally recognize as the fruit's skin; in citrus, the outer rind forms a distinct protective layer around the inner tissues.

Development and structure: the exocarp originates from the ovary's outer cell layer and remains distinct from the inner pericarp tissues—the mesocarp and endocarp—though the transition can be gradual. The boundary between layers is not always clear in all fruits.

Function and variation: it protects the developing seed and fruit from desiccation, pests, and pathogens, and may contribute to color, scent, and flavor that aid seed dispersal. In some fruits the exocarp is thin or soft, as in grapes and apples, whereas in others it is thick or hard, as in stone fruits or dry capsules.

Examples: common fruits with a pronounced egzokarp include apples, grapes, peaches, and citrus fruits. The exocarp plays a central role in the appearance and initial interaction with the environment, influencing harvest handling and consumer perception.