endodermis

American  

[en-doh-dur-mis] / ˌɛn doʊˈdɜr mɪs /

noun

Botany.

1. a specialized tissue in the roots and stems of vascular plants, composed of a single layer of modified parenchyma cells forming the inner boundary of the cortex.

---

endodermis British  

/ ˌɛndəʊˈdɜːmɪs /

noun

1. botany the specialized innermost layer of cortex in roots and some stems, which controls the passage of water and dissolved substances between the cortex and stele

---

endodermis Scientific  

/ ĕn′də-dûr′mĭs /

1. The innermost layer of the cortex that forms a sheath around the vascular tissue of roots and some stems. In the roots the endodermis helps regulate the intake of water and minerals into the vascular tissues from the cortex.

---

Etymology

Origin of endodermis

First recorded in 1880–85; endo- + -dermis

Example Sentences

The endodermis contains a barrier to the movement of solutes and water that is made of lignin, the same material present in wood.

From Science Daily • Oct. 27, 2023

This control is exerted by a specialised layer of root tissue called the endodermis.

From Science Daily • Oct. 27, 2023

The endodermis acts as a selective barrier for minerals taken up by the root.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

This ensures that only materials required by the root pass through the endodermis, while toxic substances and pathogens are generally excluded.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Grafted walnuts show callus growth from the cambium, and also from the pith of stems and the endodermis of the root.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Report of the Proceedings at the Thirty-Eighth Annual Meeting Guelph, Ontario, September 3, 4, 5, 1947 by Northern Nut Growers Association