SYNANTHEROUS Meaning and
Definition
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Synantherous is an adjective that refers to a botanical term used to describe a type of flower structure. It specifically relates to the condition where multiple individual flowers are united or fused together into a single unit, typically forming a dense cluster or head. This fusion commonly occurs at the base of the flowers, where the petals, sepals, and other floral parts are joined together, giving the appearance of a single flower.
The term synantherous is derived from the Greek words "syn" meaning "together" and "anthera" meaning "anther" - the pollen-bearing part of a flower. In synantherous flowers, the anthers of each individual flower are often fused together, forming a collective mass of anthers within the cluster. This characteristic is particularly true for plants belonging to the family Asteraceae (commonly known as the aster or sunflower family), where synanthery is a widespread trait.
The synantherous condition allows for efficient pollination as it provides a larger target for pollinators, such as bees or butterflies, to visit. Instead of landing on each individual flower, these pollinators can access numerous flowers within the cluster, thereby maximizing their efficiency in pollen transfer. Synanthery can also contribute to the overall attractiveness of a plant, as the dense clusters of flowers often create visually appealing displays.
In conclusion, synantherous is a botanical term used to describe flowers that are united into a single, densely clustered structure, with fused anthers being a key characteristic.
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In bot., having the stamens united by their anthers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SYNANTHEROUS
- aynantherous
- zynantherous
- xynantherous
- dynantherous
- stnantherous
- sgnantherous
- shnantherous
- sunantherous
- s7nantherous
- s6nantherous
- sybantherous
- symantherous
- syjantherous
- syhantherous
- synzntherous
- synsntherous
- synwntherous
- synqntherous
- synabtherous
- synamtherous
Etymology of SYNANTHEROUS
The word "Synantherous" is derived from combining two Greek roots: "syn" meaning "together" or "with", and "anthera" meaning "pollen" or "flower". In botany, the term "synantherous" refers to a condition where multiple stamens of a flower are fused or united together, usually by their anthers.
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