A fleshy or hairy outgrowth of a seed or fertilized ovule, commonly derived from the funiculus or hilum. It! may be regarded as a modified outer integument that only becomes conspicuous following fertilization. The brightly coloured mace surrounding the seed of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) is an example. In the white water lily (Nymphaea alba), in which seed dispersal is by water, the seed is covered by a spongy aril that helps keep the seed afloat. The red fleshy cup surrounding the seed of yew (Taxus baccata) is also an aril. See also caruncle. |
