Matching Seed Parts with Characteristics

This question asks us to match different parts of a seed or fruit with their defining characteristics. Let's analyze each term in List I and find its correct match in List II.

List - I (Name of the part)

• (A) Non-albuminous seed
• (B) Albuminous seed
• (C) Perisperm
• (D) Pericarp

List - II (Characteristics)

• (I) Residual endosperm present
• (II) Fruit wall
• (III) Residual endosperm absent
• (IV) Residual nucellus

Analysis of Each Matching Pair

(A) Non-albuminous seed

Non-albuminous seeds, also known as exalbuminous seeds, are those where the endosperm is completely consumed by the developing embryo during seed development. Storage food is usually stored in the cotyledons.

This matches with the characteristic: (III) Residual endosperm absent.

So, A matches with III.

(B) Albuminous seed

Albuminous seeds retain a part of the endosperm as it is not completely consumed during embryo development. This residual endosperm provides nourishment during seed germination.

This matches with the characteristic: (I) Residual endosperm present.

So, B matches with I.

(C) Perisperm

Perisperm is a nutritive tissue that is derived from the nucellus. In some seeds, the nucellus persists and remains as perisperm, which is located outside the endosperm (if present) or fills the seed cavity. Examples include black pepper and beet.

This matches with the characteristic: (IV) Residual nucellus.

So, C matches with IV.

(D) Pericarp

The pericarp is the fruit wall, which develops from the ovary wall after fertilization. It protects the seed(s) inside the fruit. The pericarp can be differentiated into three layers: the epicarp (outer skin), the mesocarp (fleshy part), and the endocarp (hard inner shell around the seed).

This matches with the characteristic: (II) Fruit wall.

So, D matches with II.

Summary of Matches

Based on the analysis, the correct pairings are:

• A - III
• B - I
• C - IV
• D - II

Let's verify this against the given options.

The matching is A-III, B-I, C-IV, D-II. This corresponds to option (c).

Revision Table: Seed and Fruit Terminology

Additional Information on Seed and Fruit Development

The seed develops from the ovule and the fruit develops from the ovary after fertilization. The process of fertilization in angiosperms is unique as it involves double fertilization, leading to the formation of both the zygote (which develops into the embryo) and the primary endosperm nucleus (which develops into the endosperm).

The fate of the endosperm during seed maturation determines whether a seed is albuminous or non-albuminous. In non-albuminous seeds, the growing embryo absorbs all the nutrients from the endosperm, and the cotyledons become the storage organs. In albuminous seeds, the embryo only partially consumes the endosperm, leaving some as storage tissue.

The pericarp (fruit wall) protects the seed. Its structure varies greatly among different types of fruits, reflecting different dispersal mechanisms. It can be dry or fleshy, dehiscent (splitting open) or indehiscent (not splitting open).

Perisperm is less common than endosperm as a storage tissue in mature seeds. It represents the persistence of the nucellus, which typically degenerates during embryo sac and endosperm development.

Understanding these terms is crucial for studying plant reproduction and morphology.