Appressorial

/æprɛˈsɔːriəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of an appressorium, especially the structures fungi use to penetrate plant cells.

Etymology

From appressorium + Latin '-alis' (relating to). This adjective form developed as mycologists needed precise terms to describe fungal structures and their functions in scientific literature.

Kelly Says

The appressorial pad in some fungi generates incredible pressure—up to 8 atmospheres—which is like having a hydraulic press at the microscopic level to break through plant defenses.

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