1. a case or sheath enclosing an organ or structure
Usage: biology
2. the wall of a sporangium in fungi
Usage: botany
3. the outer covering of an anther in flowering plants
Usage: botany

Examples

• The pollen grains developed within the theca of the anther.
• Each theca contains numerous spores ready for dispersal.
• The biologist examined the theca surrounding the reproductive structure.
• When mature, the theca splits open to release the contents.
• The fungal theca protects the developing spores inside.
• Botanists study how the theca forms during flower development.