Extrafloral Nectary
- Pronunciation
- /ek-stra-flor-al nekt-er-ee/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Extrafloral Nectary
- Plural
- Extrafloral Nectaries
Definition
Nectar-producing glands located outside of the flower, often found on leaves and other plant parts.
Etymology
From Latin 'extra', meaning 'outside', and 'floral', referring to flowers.
Example
Extrafloral nectaries on elderberry plants attract a variety of insects, including ants, which help protect the plant from herbivores.
Related Terms
- Nectar
- Plant defense
- Ant-plant mutualism
Usage Notes
Extrafloral nectaries can vary greatly in size, shape, and position depending on the plant species.