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Theca

Generally, the theca in biology is a covering or sheath of any part of an organism. In botany, thecae are most often a portion of the anther that covers a portion of the plant's stamen. In this case, the theca often contains pollen sacs, and is the primary source of pollen distribution. The outer cells of the theca are called the epidermis, with the somatic cells beneath forming the tapetum, where microspores are developed into pollen.

Thecal arrangement can be important to the proper dissemination of pollen. They may be found in a number of different forms, including divergent, transverse, oblique, and parallel. Pollen is actually formed in the theca, but the underlying mechanisms are still be uncovered.

Thecae are also found in certain microorganisms.

Sometimes the area of androgen production in the female of a species is referred to as the theca.

Web Resources On Theca

Theca lutein cells
Theca Lutein Cysts

Book Resources On Theca

Plant Physiology by Taiz & Zeiger
Biology of Plants by Raven et. al.

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