Endothecium

/ˌɛndoʊˈθiːʃəm/ noun

Definition

The inner fibrous layer of cells in a flower's anther that helps split open to release pollen, or the inner layer of a theca.

Etymology

From endo- (Greek 'within') + thecium (from theca, Latin 'case'). Established botanical term from 1800s.

Kelly Says

The endothecium of an anther is like the string on a popcorn kernel—as it dries, the thickened cell walls create stress that eventually makes the anther burst and release millions of pollen grains!

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