Bulbotuber

/ˌbʌlboʊˈtjuːbər/ noun

Definition

A plant structure that combines characteristics of both a bulb and a tuber, used by some plants for underground food storage.

Etymology

From 'bulbo-' (bulb) and 'tuber' from Latin 'tuber' (a swelling), describing hybrid storage organs in certain plants.

Kelly Says

Some plants hedge their bets evolutionarily by developing bulbotubers—they get the advantages of both bulbs and tubers for surviving harsh seasons, like having both a savings account and a backup stash of supplies.

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