endospermens

Endosperm is a tissue found in the seeds of flowering plants, also known as angiosperms. It is the primary food storage tissue, providing nutrients for the developing embryo during germination. Endosperm can be classified into three types based on its origin and development: nuclear, cellular, and helobial.

Nuclear endosperm is formed from the division of the central cell of the embryo sac, which is the female gametophyte. This type is common in monocots, such as grasses and orchids. Cellular endosperm, on the other hand, is formed from the division of the fertilized egg cell. This type is found in dicots, such as roses and sunflowers. Helobial endosperm is a transitional type, found in some monocots, where both nuclear and cellular endosperm are present.

Endosperm plays a crucial role in the nutrition of the developing embryo. It provides essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are necessary for the growth and development of the seedling. The endosperm also serves as a protective layer, shielding the embryo from external damage.

In some cases, the endosperm may be consumed by the embryo, leading to the formation of an endosperm-free seed. This is common in dicots, where the endosperm is absorbed by the embryo during development. In other cases, the endosperm may persist and be consumed by the seedling after germination, providing additional nutrients for growth.