Dicots, short for dicotyledons, are a group of flowering plants that belong to the class Magnoliopsida. They are characterized by having seeds with two embryonic leaves, known as cotyledons. This sets them apart from monocots, which have only one cotyledon.
One of the key characteristics of dicots is the arrangement of their veins in the leaves. Most dicots have a network of veins that branch out from a central midrib, giving them a net-like appearance. Additionally, dicots typically have flower parts in fours or fives, as opposed to monocots, which have them in threes.
Dicots encompass a wide range of plant species, including trees, shrubs, herbs, and even some aquatic plants. They are vital to the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for various animal species. Understanding the classification and characteristics of dicots helps us appreciate the diversity and importance of these plants in the natural world.#16#