Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Cotyledon and Endosperm?

Guilherme Mazui

•2 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Cotyledon and Endosperm?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main differences between cotyledons and endosperm are their functions and locations within a seed. Here are the key differences:

  1. Function: Cotyledons are embryonic leaves that become the first leaves of the embryonic plant, while endosperm is a nutrient-rich tissue that provides nourishment to the developing embryo.
  2. Location: Cotyledons are part of the plant embryo, while endosperm is located inside the seed.
  3. Nutrient Storage: Cotyledons store nutrients in leaf-like structures, while endosperm stores nutrients in a tissue that surrounds the embryo.
  4. Seed Type: In monocots, a single cotyledon is found in the embryo, while a large endosperm is also present.

When a seed germinates, the radicle is the first part to emerge, followed by the cotyledons and then the true leaves. In some species, the cotyledons can also absorb nutrients from the endosperm to provide for the seedling.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Cotyledon and Endosperm?
  • Comparative Table: Cotyledon vs Endosperm

    • Comparative Table: Cotyledon vs Endosperm

    Here is a table comparing the differences between cotyledons and endosperms:

    Feature Cotyledon Endosperm
    Function Embryonic leaf of a seed, becomes the first leaves of the plant after germination Tissue that provides nutrients to the developing embryo
    Location Part of the plant embryo Inside the seed
    Roots Found in dicotyledonous plants Found in monocotyledonous plants
    Germination Cotyledon stays until the seedling is capable of photosynthesis Endosperm is processed completely before the seed sprouts
    Nutrient Provision Cotyledon provides for the creation of the embryo Endosperm sustains the young seedling
    Examples Corn and other monocots Tomatoes and other dicots

    In summary, cotyledons are part of the embryo and develop into the first leaves of the plant after germination, while endosperms are separate tissues within the seed that provide nutrients to the developing embryo.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.