Epigyny meaning

Epigyny refers to the botanical condition where the ovary is located above the other floral parts.


Epigyny definitions

Word backwards ynygipe
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division e-pig-y-ny
Plural The plural of the word epigyny is epigynies.
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) e,i
Consonants (4) p,g,y,n

Epigyny is a botanical term used to describe a specific type of flower that has its ovary situated below the attachment point of other floral parts like the sepals, petals, and stamens. This positioning of the ovary beneath the other flower parts is characteristic of epigynous flowers.

Features of Epigyny

Epigynous flowers typically have inferior ovaries, where the ovary is positioned below the receptacle. This arrangement causes the sepals, petals, and stamens to appear attached above the ovary. In epigynous flowers, the ovary is surrounded by other floral parts, giving the appearance of a raised floral structure.

Plant Species with Epigynous Flowers

Many plant species exhibit epigyny, including members of the Asteraceae, Rosaceae, and Fabaceae families. For example, the sunflower (a member of the Asteraceae family) is an example of a plant with epigynous flowers. Other examples include roses (Rosaceae) and peas (Fabaceae).

Reproductive Advantages of Epigyny

Epigyny offers certain advantages in terms of reproduction. By having the ovary below the other floral parts, epigynous flowers are better protected against environmental factors that could harm the ovary and affect seed development. Additionally, this floral arrangement can also make it easier for pollinators to access the reproductive structures of the flower.

In conclusion, epigyny refers to a specific botanical feature found in certain plants where the ovary is positioned below the attachment point of other floral parts. This arrangement has advantages in terms of protection and pollination, making epigynous flowers an interesting subject of study in the field of botany.


Epigyny Examples

  1. The botanical term "epigyny" refers to a type of floral arrangement where the sepals, petals, and stamens are attached to the ovary at the same level.
  2. In some plants, such as apples and pears, the flower structure demonstrates epigyny, with the sepals, petals, and stamens positioned above the ovary.
  3. Botanists use the term "epigyny" to describe flowers where the ovary is positioned below the attachment of the other floral parts.
  4. The classification of epigynous flowers is based on the relative position of the ovary in relation to the other floral organs.
  5. Epigyny can be observed in a wide range of plant species, including many common fruits and ornamental plants.
  6. Certain plant families are known for their consistent display of epigyny in their flowers, aiding in their identification.
  7. The presence or absence of epigyny is an important characteristic used by botanists to group plants into different categories.
  8. Understanding the concept of epigyny can provide insights into the evolutionary relationships between different plant species.
  9. Epigyny can impact the reproductive success of plants by influencing how pollen is transferred to the ovules for fertilization.
  10. Scientists continue to study the significance of epigyny in plant biology and its role in the broader context of floral evolution.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 12/07/2024 - 08:58:53