Differentiate between racemose and cymose inflorescence?
Racemose Inflorescence:
Racemose inflorescence refers to the type of flower arrangement in which the main axis continues to grow indefinitely, producing flowers in an acropetal manner. The flowers are arranged along the axis in a zigzag pattern, with the older flowers located towards the base and the younger ones towards the apex.
Types of Racemose Inflorescence:
There are three main types of racemose inflorescence:
1. Indeterminate Raceme: In this type, the main axis continues to grow, and the flowers are arranged in an alternate manner along the axis. The oldest flower is located at the base, and the youngest flower is at the apex. Examples of plants with indeterminate racemes include orchids and lilies.
2. Determinate Raceme: In this type, the main axis stops growing after producing a certain number of flowers. The flowers are arranged in an alternate manner, similar to the indeterminate raceme. However, the oldest flower is located at the apex, and the youngest flower is towards the base. Mustard plants are an example of plants with determinate racemes.
3. Spike: The spike is a type of racemose inflorescence where the flowers are sessile and arranged closely along a single elongated axis. The flowers are not stalked and lack pedicels. Examples of plants with spikes include wheat and rye.
Cymose Inflorescence:
Cymose inflorescence refers to the type of flower arrangement in which the main axis terminates in a flower and further growth occurs from the lateral branches. This type of inflorescence is characterized by the production of a terminal flower followed by the development of lateral branches in a basipetal manner.
Types of Cymose Inflorescence:
There are three main types of cymose inflorescence:
1. Cymose Dichasial: In this type, the main axis terminates in a flower, and two lateral branches arise from the axil of the opposite leaves. Each branch again terminates in a flower, and the process continues. Examples include jasmine and portulaca.
2. Cymose Monochasial: In this type, the main axis terminates in a flower, and a single lateral branch arises from the axil of the opposite leaf. The lateral branch further develops and terminates in a flower. Examples include nightshade and primrose.
3. Cymose Helicoid: In this type, the main axis terminates in a flower, and lateral branches arise in a helical pattern. Each lateral branch terminates in a flower, and the process continues. Examples include jasmine and periwinkle.
Summary:
Racemose inflorescence is characterized by an indeterminate or determinate arrangement of flowers along the main axis, while cymose inflorescence is characterized by the production of a terminal flower followed by the development of lateral branches. Understanding the differences between these two types of inflorescence helps in the identification and classification of various plant species.
Differentiate between racemose and cymose inflorescence?
Racemose - acropital
cymose - basipital
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