Schizocarp

Schizocarp

A Schizocarp is a type of fruit that splits into two or more parts (known as mericarps) at maturity. Each part contains one seed and is designed to separate from the other parts of the fruit. This is a common feature in the carrot family (Apiaceae) and the mallow family (Malvaceae).

Structure and Function

The structure of a schizocarp is designed to aid in seed dispersal. The fruit is dry and does not split open at maturity to release its seeds (a characteristic known as being indehiscent). Instead, the fruit splits into separate mericarps that can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals.

Each mericarp of a schizocarp is a true fruit that contains a single seed. The mericarps remain closed, protecting the seed until conditions are right for germination. This can be a successful strategy for plants in harsh environments where conditions for germination may not be ideal at the time of fruit maturity.

Examples

Examples of plants that produce schizocarps include species in the carrot family, such as carrots, parsley, and celery, and species in the mallow family, such as mallows, cotton, and okra.

In the carrot family, the schizocarp typically splits into two mericarps. In the mallow family, the schizocarp is often shaped like a wheel and splits into multiple wedge-shaped mericarps.

See Also

• Fruit
• Seed dispersal
• Apiaceae
• Malvaceae