Question

Cyathium and hypanthodium inforescence are to family similar in having

• A. Nectar glands
• B. Unisexual flower
• C. Both (A) and (B)
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is B Unisexual flower

Cyathium - Here, the inflorescence is highly reduced. It has a cup shaped receptacle formed by the fusion of five bracts. On the surface of this cup, generally a yellow coloured nectar secreting gland is present. A single female flower arises from the centre of the cup. It is highly reduced and is borne on a long stalk. The male flowers are highly reduced and are produced in a scorpioid manner from the axil of each bract e.g., Euphorbia pulcherrima.

Hypanthodium - In this type of inflorescence the receptacle becomes spherical with a cavity inside. It opens to the outside with a small opening. Numerous small sessile flowers are produced from the inner surface of the receptacle. These flowers are of three types: male flowers, female flowers and sterile female flowers (gall flowers) e.g., Ficus. No nectar glands. So, cyathium and hypanthodium inforescence are to family similar in having unisexual flowers and not in nectar glands.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B.