LEPIDODENDRON Meaning and
Definition
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Lepidodendron refers to a genus of extinct, primitive tree-like plants that existed during the Carboniferous period, roughly 350 million years ago. The word "Lepidodendron" is derived from the Greek words "lepis," meaning scale, and "dendron," meaning tree, which reflects the characteristic dominant feature of these plants.
Lepidodendron trees were characterized by a tall, slender trunk covered in diamond-shaped or scale-like patterns. They were known for their towering size, reaching heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters) or more. The trunks of Lepidodendron bore spirally arranged, leathery leaves known as microphylls, which attached to the branches by small stalks. These microphylls were generally long and narrow, giving Lepidodendron a characteristic feathery appearance.
Lepidodendron plants reproduced via spores rather than seeds. They produced cone-like structures, known as strobili, which contained the spores. The strobili were found at the top of the tree and were often mistaken for cones. These spores were released into the air, allowing for reproduction and the spread of Lepidodendron plants.
As an extinct genus, Lepidodendron played a significant role in ancient ecosystems. They were dominant plants during the Carboniferous period and formed extensive forests that eventually contributed to the formation of vast coal deposits. These plants played a part in shaping the Earth's climate during this time, as they absorbed carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, potentially affecting atmospheric conditions. Today, the fossil remains of Lepidodendron provide valuable information about the Earth's ancient flora and the evolution of land plants.
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In geol., an abundant family of fossil plants, so called from the scale-like arrangement of the leaf-scars on their stems.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LEPIDODENDRON
- kepidodendron
- pepidodendron
- oepidodendron
- lwpidodendron
- lspidodendron
- ldpidodendron
- lrpidodendron
- l4pidodendron
- l3pidodendron
- leoidodendron
- lelidodendron
- le-idodendron
- le0idodendron
- lepudodendron
- lepjdodendron
- lepkdodendron
- lepododendron
- lep9dodendron
- lep8dodendron
Etymology of LEPIDODENDRON
The word "Lepidodendron" is derived from Greek roots. "Lepido" comes from the Greek word "lepís", which means "scale", and "dendron" comes from the Greek word "déndron", which means "tree". Therefore, "Lepidodendron" literally translates to "scale tree" in reference to the characteristic scale-like patterns found on the plant's trunk.
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