Indehiscent

Indehiscent is a term used in botany to describe a type of fruit that does not split open at maturity to release its seeds. This is in contrast to dehiscent fruits, which do split open at maturity. Indehiscent fruits include nuts, berries, and drupes.

Types of Indehiscent Fruits

There are several types of indehiscent fruits, including:

• Achene: A small, dry, one-seeded fruit that does not split open.
• Caryopsis: A type of fruit in which the pericarp is fused with the seed coat, typical of grains.
• Samara: A type of fruit in which a flattened wing of fibrous, papery tissue develops from the ovary wall. A samara is a simple dry fruit and indehiscent (not opening along a seam).
• Nut: A fruit composed of a hard shell and a seed, which is generally edible.

Comparison with Dehiscent Fruits

In contrast to indehiscent fruits, dehiscent fruits split open at maturity. Examples of dehiscent fruits include legumes, capsules, and follicles.

Ecological Significance

The indehiscence of fruits is an important adaptation for seed dispersal. By remaining closed, indehiscent fruits protect the seeds inside, allowing them to be dispersed by animals or wind. This can increase the range and success of the plant species.

See Also

• Fruit
• Seed dispersal
• Botany

Indehiscent Resources
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