Definition

A protective covering that surrounds the young root of certain grass plants, helping it to grow and emerge from the seed.

Example

The coleorhiza helps protect the developing root as it pushes through the soil.

Conversation

I was reading about plant biology, and I came across the term coleorhiza.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It's the protective sheath that covers the embryonic root of some grasses.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about how plants grow.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Coleorhiza is formed from "coleo-" (from Greek "koleos", meaning sheath) and "rhiza" (from Greek "rhiza", meaning root). The term refers to a sheath-like structure that protects the root of a seedling.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sheath' ('coleo-') that covers a 'root' ('rhiza') — that's why coleorhiza refers to a protective sheath around a root.

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