What is a turion?

A turion is defined as a thick bud that can develop into a new plant. This term is often used in the context of aquatic plants, particularly in species that have seasonal growth patterns. Turions serve as a means of asexual reproduction, allowing the plant to survive adverse conditions and regenerate when the environment becomes more favorable.

These structures can remain dormant during unfavorable seasons, such as winter, and then germinate when conditions improve, facilitating the continuation of the species. Understanding the role of turions in plant life cycles is crucial for managing aquatic ecosystems, especially when considering the propagation and control of certain aquatic species. The other options do not align with the biological definition and function of a turion, as they refer to different aspects of plant biology and reproduction that do not accurately represent what a turion is.