gemma (ˈdʒɛmə) ![]() | |
| —n , pl -mae | |
| 1. | a small asexual reproductive structure in liverworts, mosses, etc, that becomes detached from the parent and develops into a new individual |
| 2. | zoology another name for gemmule |
| [C18: from Latin: bud, | |
| gemmaceous | |
| —adj | |
| phase in plant life which starts with a zygote produced by sexual reproduction |
| ovules in flowering plants which are enclosed during pollination |
| gemma (jěm'ə) Pronunciation Key
Plural gemmae (jěm'ē') A budlike mass of undifferentiated tissue which serves as a means of vegetative reproduction among mosses and liverworts. The gemmae, often formed in structures called gemma cups, are usually dispersed from the parent plant by the splashing of raindrops, after which they develop into new individuals. |