silique

Silique is a type of dry, dehiscent fruit typical of the Brassicaceae (mustards) and some related families. It develops from a superior ovary formed by two fused carpels. At maturity the fruit splits along two longitudinal sutures to release the seeds, which are typically arranged in two rows on either side of a central persistent replum, a septum-like structure.

Morphology and structure: A silique is usually elongated, generally at least twice as long as wide. It consists of two locules separated by the replum; the outer wall becomes the two seed-bearing valves, while the inner tissue forms the replum. When the fruit dehisces, the valves separate from the replum and disperse the seeds.

Distinction from similar fruit types: A closely related form, the silicle, is short and broad, with length not exceeding roughly twice its width. Silicles often have a reduced or shorter replum compared with siliques. These distinctions are common in identification within Brassicaceae genera.

Ecology and examples: Siliques are common in many cultivated crucifers, including Brassica oleracea (cabbage, kale), Brassica napus (rapeseed), and in model organisms such as Arabidopsis thaliana. They play a key role in seed dispersal, and their dehiscence can be explosive under dry conditions.

Taxonomic note: The term silique (or siliqua) refers to this fruit type and is used broadly in describing the seed-bearing pods of many Brassicaceae species. See also siliqua as a synonymous form in some texts.