The monocot embryo in angiosperms develops through a series of cell divisions and differentiation, resulting in a structure with a single cotyledon, a plumule, and a radicle.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Initial Zygote Division: The zygote, formed after fertilization, undergoes an initial transverse division, resulting in two cells: the terminal cell and the basal cell.
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Terminal Cell Development: The terminal cell undergoes further division.
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Second Division: The terminal cell divides again transversely, resulting in two new cells.
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Plumule and Cotyledon Formation: Through subsequent cell divisions and differentiation, the uppermost of these two cells develops into the plumule (the embryonic shoot). The lowermost cell develops into a single cotyledon.
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Scutellum Formation: The single cotyledon in monocots is known as the scutellum. Due to the rapid growth of the scutellum, the terminal plumule is pushed to one side.
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Basal Cell Development: The basal cell primarily develops into a suspensor, which anchors the embryo to the endosperm and provides nutrients.
In summary, the monocot embryo develops with a single cotyledon (scutellum) pushing the plumule to the side, differentiating from the terminal cell after a series of divisions, while the basal cell develops into the suspensor.
