Anterior
Definition
In botany, anterior refers to the front or outward-facing part of a plant structure, typically in relation to an axis, point of attachment, or another structure. The term is commonly used in describing floral morphology and leaf arrangement.
Usage in Botany
- Floral Anatomy – In zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetrical) flowers, the anterior petal or sepal is the one facing away from the main axis of the plant (e.g., the lower petal in Antirrhinum majus, snapdragon).
- Leaf and Organ Positioning – In leaves or bracts, the anterior surface is often the side facing outward from the stem or axis.
- Fruit and Seed Orientation – Anterior may describe the part of a fruit or seed that faces away from the parent structure.
Comparison with Posterior
- Anterior – The front-facing or outward-directed side.
- Posterior – The rear-facing or inward-directed side, closer to the main axis of the plant.
The term is primarily used in detailed morphological descriptions to clarify the positioning of plant parts, particularly in flowers and inflorescences.
