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.

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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

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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.

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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 seal ensures the only pathway for nutrients and water to be taken up by roots is through the cells of the endodermis.

From Science Daily • Oct. 27, 2023

The vascular cylinder is enclosed by the endodermis.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

The outer edge of the pericycle is called the endodermis.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

The innermost layer of cells of the cortex is called the endodermis and it becomes conspicuous on account of the thickening in the lateral and inner walls of the cells of this layer.

From A Handbook of Some South Indian Grasses by Rangachari, K.