Endosperm

Endosperm is a tissue produced within the seeds of flowering plants (angiosperms) during the process of fertilization. It provides vital nutrients to the developing embryo and can serve as a food source for the seedling upon germination. The endosperm may be starchy, fatty, or proteinaceous, depending on the plant species.

Endosperm meaning with examples

• In corn and many other grains, the endosperm is the primary component that supplies energy-rich carbohydrates to the developing plant embryos, ensuring successful germination.
• The endosperm of wheat is ground to produce flour, which is essential for baking and creating various food products, making it a significant agricultural commodity worldwide.
• In beans, the endosperm contains proteins that are crucial for the early stages of a plant’s growth, providing a source of nutrition as the seedling emerges from the soil.
• The endosperm's role varies among different plants; for instance, in coconut, the endosperm is a dense, nutrient-rich 'meat' that serves as a food reserve for the developing embryo.
• Palm seeds often have a substantial endosperm, which is adapted to provide long-term nourishment in harsher environmental conditions, aiding in the plant’s survival and establishment.