Achene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ผ
achene
[ษหkiหn ]
Definition
botanical term
An achene is a type of dry fruit that does not open at maturity. Each achene contains one seed, which is attached to the fruit's wall only at one point. This structure allows the seed to be dispersed easily by wind or animal activity.
Synonyms
dry fruit, indehiscent fruit.
Examples of usage
- Dandelions produce achenes that are carried by the wind.
- The strawberry is not a true berry, but rather a collection of achenes on its surface.
- Achenes are commonly seen in sunflowers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Botany
- Achenes can be found in many common plants, including sunflowers and strawberries, showcasing their diverse nature.
- Unlike some seeds that open when mature, achenes remain closed, effectively protecting the seed until conditions are right for growth.
Culinary Uses
- Achenes can be found in common foods like strawberries; the tiny seeds on the outside of the berry are actually achenes.
- The achene of the sunflower is what we often refer to as sunflower seeds; they are a popular snack and ingredient in recipes.
Ecology
- Achenes play a vital role in plant reproduction, helping to ensure that plants spread and thrive in various environments.
- Many animals, such as squirrels and birds, eat achenes, contributing to the dispersal of seeds through their waste, which helps grow new plants.
Agriculture
- Farmers often cultivate plants that produce achenes because of their ability to yield crops with minimal effort in seed dispersal.
- Research into achenes has led to better understanding of crop resilience, revealing ways to enhance food security.
Origin of 'achene'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'achene' comes from the Greek word 'achฤnฤ', meaning 'without a seed' because it contains only one seed.
- It was first used in scientific texts in the early 19th century to describe small seeds of specific flowering plants.
The word 'achene' originates from the French term 'akรจne', which was derived from the Greek word 'achein', meaning 'to be sharp or pointed'. The term was adopted in botanical terminology in the late 19th century to describe small, single-seeded fruits that remain closed at maturity. This classification helps botanists and horticulturists communicate about plant reproduction and fruit structures more effectively. Achenes are commonly found in various plant families, most notably in the Asteraceae (sunflower family) and Rosaceae (rose family), highlighting their ecological importance and diversity within flora.