The innermost layer of the cortex in plant roots that controls the movement of water and dissolved substances into the vascular system. The endodermis contains the Casparian strip, a waxy barrier that forces selective transport.
From Greek 'endon' (within) and 'derma' (skin), meaning 'inner skin,' coined in the 19th century. The term reflects its position as the innermost boundary layer of the root cortex.
The endodermis is like a customs checkpoint for plant roots - nothing gets into the plant's circulatory system without passing inspection! The Casparian strip acts like a waterproof gasket that forces all materials to pass through the living cell membrane where they can be screened and regulated.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.