Question

An example of a naturally occurring parthenocarpic fruit is

• A. Guava
• B. Mango
• C. Banana
• D. Apple

Answer 1

The correct option is C Banana

When the ovary of a flower develops into a fruit without fertilization is called as parthenocarpy. The result is a seedless fruit.

The word comes from Greek meaning virgin fruit. As a rule, flowers need to be pollinated and fertilized to create fruit. In some species of plants, a different method has developed, requiring either 'no fertilization' or 'no fertilization and no pollination'. In cultivated plants, parthenocarpy is introduced with plant hormones, such as gibberellic acid. It causes ovaries to mature without fertilization and produces bigger fruits. The process is being introduced to all kinds of crops from squash to cucumber and more.

It is also a natural process as in the case of bananas. Bananas are sterile and develop no viable ovaries. They do not produce seeds, which mean they must propagate vegetatively. Pineapples and figs are also examples of parthenocarpy which occur naturally.

Thus, the correct answer is option C.