Question

What are the functions of Cotyledon?

Answer 1

Hint: Cotyledons are part of a seed from which leaves grow. It is also known as seed leaves. The main function of a cotyledon is to provide support and nutrition to the developing plant embryo. They are the primary food source during germination of a plant.

Complete explanation:
The word ‘cotyledon’ is derived from the Greek root ‘kotyledon’ meaning cup-shaped cavity.
The following are the functions of a cotyledon:
- Synthesize gibberellic acid, a plant hormone.
- Food reserve for the growing seedling.
- Maintaining stable metabolism of the plant embryo.
- Cotyledons develop into the first active organs of photosynthesis.
- Acts as an absorbing organ, that is, absorbs nutrients from the endosperm.
Based on the number of cotyledons present, seeds can be classified as:
Monocot seed: In this type of seed, only one cotyledon is present, e.g. Rice, Wheat, Maize.
Dicot seed: There are two cotyledons in this type of seed, e.g. mango seed, neem seed.
Multicotyledonous seed: In this type of seed, more than two cotyledons are present, e.g. Angiosperms.

Additional information:
Cotyledons in some cases act as a major photosynthetic producer so that sufficient nutrition can be provided to the developing plant embryo. Photosynthesis is the process by which food is prepared by the plants with the help of sunlight and chlorophyll pigment.

Note:
Germination is the process of development of a plant from the seed. Cotyledons are important for a proper function and growth of a seedling. Without the presence of cotyledons, the main food source of the growing plant is inhibited, and thus the plant is not developed.