Encyclopedia.com > Dictionaries, Thesauruses, Pictures, and Press Releases > A Dictionary of Biology > January 2004

mucigel

A Dictionary of Biology | 2004 | 446 words | Copyright

mucigel (slime) A mixture of plant secretions, bacteria, and soil particles that surrounds the tip of plant roots. It contains complex polysaccharides called mucilages which are secreted by the root cap and help to lubricate passage of the growing root tip through the soil. However, the root tip also releases amino acids and sugars, which encourage the growth of bacteria, thought to assist in mobilizing soil nutrients for uptake by the root.

Cite this article
Pick a style below, and copy the text for your bibliography.

  • MLA
  • Chicago
  • APA

"mucigel." A Dictionary of Biology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 30 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

"mucigel." A Dictionary of Biology. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. (May 30, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O6-mucigel.html

"mucigel." A Dictionary of Biology. 2004. Retrieved May 30, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O6-mucigel.html

Learn more about citation styles

Find thousands of answers for hundreds of subjects at Answers Encyclopedia .

All answers verified by trusted sources at Encyclopedia.com

Try Answers Encyclopedia now!

For students and teachers!

Encyclopedia.com provides students and teachers facts, information, and biographies from verified, citable sources, including:

Encyclopedia.com provides students and teachers facts, information, and biographies from verified, citable sources, including: