Category: L

A long narrow leaf, slightly wider below, gradually tapering to its tip (lance-shaped).  

The blade of a leaf (as distinct from the petiole).  

Also known as “bad” cholesterol. It can deposit cholesterol on the lining of blood vessels and cause obstructive plaques and atherosclerosis. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol serves as the predominant form of cholesterol in the body. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol elevate the susceptibility to coronary heart disease. LDL cholesterol is commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol.…

A genetic abnormality of the kidney, which retains sodium and excretes potassium in excessive amounts.  

Enlargement of the muscle of the left (main) pumping chamber of the heart, which can result from hypertension because of the extra work required to pump blood effectively against elevated blood pressure. An increase in the mass of the left ventricle of the heart to greater than 100 g/m2 in women or 131 g/m2 in…

Blood pressure that may be normal sometimes and hypertensive at other times; fluctuations are especially pronounced.  

Major clade of seedless vascular plants sister to all other vascular plants (ferns+gymnosperms+flowering plants). The clade is distinguished in having non-specialised leaves called microphylls and simple vascular structures and consists of Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiaceae and Selaginellaceae.  

Colloquial term used sometimes incorrectly instead of lycopod.  

Growing along a shore of the sea, a lake or a river.  

Plant with special structures to catch litter and gain nutrients.