Definition

A type of tissue in some plants that has large air spaces, helping them float and allowing gases to move easily. It is commonly found in the stems and leaves of plants that grow in water.

Example

The aerenchyma in the water lily helps it float on the surface of the pond.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of aerenchyma in plants?

Yeah, I think it's that tissue that helps aquatic plants float, right?

Exactly! It has those large air spaces that allow gas circulation.

That's really cool; it must be essential for their survival!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aerenchyma is formed from "aer" (from Greek "ἀήρ", meaning air) and "enchyma" (from Greek "ἐγχύμα", meaning infusion or something poured in). The word refers to a type of plant tissue that contains air spaces, allowing for buoyancy and gas exchange.

Memory Tip

Imagine plant tissue that is 'infused' with 'air' — that's what aerenchyma is, a tissue filled with air spaces.

Visually Confused Words