Radicle
In botany, the radicle is the first part of a seedling to emerge from the seed during the process of germination. It is the embryonic root of the plant, which grows downward into the soil, anchoring the seedling. The radicle is responsible for absorbing water and essential nutrients required for the plants growth and development. It is a crucial part of the plant embryo and plays a vital role in the establishment of the root system of the plant. The direction of the radicles growth can be classified as antitropous or syntropous, depending on whether it points away from or towards the seed coat scar or hilum. If the radicle begins to decay, the seedling may undergo pre-emergence damping off, which can lead to the death of the seedling.
The radicle is protected by a root cap and is essential for the absorption and transportation of water and nutrients for the further growth and development of the new plant. It is a fundamental part of the seed embryo and is critical for the successful germination and establishment of the plant.
In summary, the radicle is the embryonic root of the plant, emerging from the seed during germination, and is responsible for anchoring the seedling, absorbing water and nutrients, and establishing the root system of the plant.
