What is the Difference Between Epicotyl and Plumule?

The main difference between epicotyl and plumule lies in their structure and function within the embryonic plant.

• Epicotyl: This is the part of the seedling that lies above the point of attachment of cotyledons and extends up to the plumule, which is the tip of the epicotyl. The epicotyl develops into leaves, stems, and flowers as the plant grows. Its main role is to extend the shoot above the soil.
• Plumule: This is the tip of the epicotyl, which gives rise to the first true leaves of the new plant. The plumule is composed of the epicotyl, young leaves, and the shoot apical meristem. Its main function is to form the first true leaves, called leaf primordia.

In summary, the epicotyl is the part of the embryonic axis that lies between the cotyledons and the plumule, while the plumule is the tip of the epicotyl that gives rise to the first true leaves of the new plant.

Comparative Table: Epicotyl vs Plumule

Here is a table comparing the differences between epicotyl and plumule:

In summary, the epicotyl is the part of the embryonic axis that lies between the cotyledons and the plumule, while the plumule is the tip of the epicotyl, giving rise to the first true leaves of the new plant.