cuticle
waxy, waterproof layer that coats the parts of a plant exposed to air
Cuticle is a thin, waxy layer that covers the outer surface of leaves, stems, petals, and other plant parts. It is primarily composed of hydrophobic molecules such as waxes and cutin, which help to protect the plant from water loss, ultraviolet radiation, and disease-causing organisms.
The cuticle is essential for regulating the exchange of gases, water, and minerals between the plant and the environment. It prevents excessive water loss, which can lead to dehydration and wilting, and also protects against the harmful effects of solar radiation. It also provides a physical barrier to protect against fungal and bacterial infections that can damage the plant tissue, as well as help to repel insects and other pests.
Cuticle thickness and composition can vary depending on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of pollutants in the air. In some plant species, the cuticle may play a role in determining the plant’s ability to survive in different environmental conditions.
Overall, the cuticle is an essential component of plant physiology and plays a critical role in ensuring the survival and health of plants in a wide range of environments.
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