Question

Consider the following four statements (a-d) and select the option which includes all the correct ones.
(a) Ruminate endosperm is found in betel nut.
(b) Edible part of coconut is the endosperm.
(c) Mosaic endosperm is found in maize.
(d) After maturity, all endosperms become cellular.

• A. (a), (b), (c) and (d)
• B. (a) and (b)
• C. (b), (c) and (d)
• D. (c) and (d)

Answer 1

The correct option is A (a), (b), (c) and (d)

Ruminate endosperm is found in the palms (Arecaceae). It is the condition in which the endosperm is dissected by in-growths of the seed coat, which is a common condition in the palms.

The part of the coconut that is usually eaten is the endosperm.

In some cases, the tissue of the endosperm is not homogeneous but there are patches of different colours. This type of endosperm is called mosaic endosperm. In maize endosperm, red and white patches appear irregularly distributed.

At maturity when the endosperm has become cellular, it gives a mosaic or variegated appearance.