Dataset Information

The pleurogram, an under-investigated functional trait in seeds.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A structure called the pleurogram makes up a large part of the seed coat of some species in subfamilies Caesalpinioideae and Mimosoideae of Fabaceae, but little is known about its function. It has been hypothesized that this structure acts as a hygroscopic valve during the maturation drying of seeds. However, a new hypothesis has recently emerged that proposes a distinct function for the pleurogram.

Scope

Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of the pleurogram, which is diverse and complex. This large structure can be dislodged, thereby creating a pathway for water entry into water-impermeable seeds. However, the pleurogram is non-functional as a pathway of water into the seed of some species. Thus, the evolutionary history of species with a pleurogram may be related to a loss/gain in its function. A complete model for the function of the pleurogram is proposed.

Conclusions

The pleurogram may act on several stages of the seed, from maturation to germination. As a hygroscopic valve, it regulates dehydration of the seed during maturation. As a pathway for water entry into the seed, the pleurogram acts as a water gap in seeds with physical dormancy, thereby regulating dormancy break/germination. The occurrence of a pleurogram in several genera of legumes and Cucurbitaceae is confirmed. Single or multiple pleurograms can serve as (the) point(s) of water entry into seeds that do not otherwise have a hilar water gap.

SUBMITTER: Rodrigues-Junior AG

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7789108 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Publications

The pleurogram, an under-investigated functional trait in seeds.

Rodrigues-Junior Ailton G AG Baskin Carol C CC Baskin Jerry M JM De-Paula Orlando C OC

Annals of botany 20210101 2

<h4>Background</h4>A structure called the pleurogram makes up a large part of the seed coat of some species in subfamilies Caesalpinioideae and Mimosoideae of Fabaceae, but little is known about its function. It has been hypothesized that this structure acts as a hygroscopic valve during the maturation drying of seeds. However, a new hypothesis has recently emerged that proposes a distinct function for the pleurogram.<h4>Scope</h4>Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of the ...[more]

PMID: 32893847

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Dataset Information

The pleurogram, an under-investigated functional trait in seeds.

Background

Scope

Conclusions

Publications

The pleurogram, an under-investigated functional trait in seeds.

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