NEETBotanySexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants
In the post-fertilization development of a groundnut plant, what is the ultimate fate of the Primary Endosperm Nucleus (PEN) and the integuments in the mature seed?
Options
- AThe PEN develops into an endosperm which is completely consumed by the developing embryo, and the integuments
- BThe PEN develops into a persistent endosperm that stores food, and the integuments harden to form the seed coa
- CThe PEN develops into the perisperm which persists in the mature seed, and the integuments are completely cons
- DThe PEN hardens to form the seed coat, and the integuments develop into the endosperm which is completely cons
Correct answer
A. The PEN develops into an endosperm which is completely consumed by the developing embryo, and the integuments
Step-by-step solution
After double fertilization, the Primary Endosperm Nucleus (PEN) develops into the endosperm, while the integuments of the ovule harden to form the tough protective seed coats. Groundnut is an example of a dicot plant that produces non-albuminous (ex-albuminous) seeds. In non-albuminous seeds, the endosperm formed from the PEN is completely consumed by the developing embryo before seed maturation. Therefore, in a mature groundnut seed, the endosperm is absent (completely consumed), and the integuments have developed