Question

Balloon type inflated persistent calyx is characteristic of

• A. Helianthus
• B. Colutea
• C. Physalis
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C Physalis

Anemochory is seed or fruit dispersal by wind. Balloon type inflated persistent calyx is a sub-type of anemochory in which inflated calyx is remain attached to the fruit.
In Colutea, the same purpose is served by the inflated ovaries of the pod. The Colutea seeds are also dispersed by anemochory. But not the calyx but the inflated ovaries of the pod are involved in this mechanism.
Helianthus seeds are heavy are not provided with pappus. Such seeds are dispersed by censer mechanism (a sub-type of anemochory). Censer mechanism is a type of anemochory (wind dispersal) where the seeds are dispersed from the small opening on the fruit. This opening is very small that only few seeds can escape at a time. Balloon type inflated persistent calyx is characteristic of Physalis. It enables the seed containing fruits to float in air for some time. This is a kind of adaptation shown by the fruit for wind dispersal of its seeds. It is also called as anemochory.
Therefore, option C is correct.