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Question

Find out whether the endosperm is persistent in cereals – wheat, rice and maize?

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Solution

Yes, the endosperm is persistent in cereals such as wheat, rice and maize. The endosperm and the seed provide nutrients.

What is Endosperm?

The seeds of the majority of angiosperms have endosperms. The growing embryo receives nutrients from it. Dicotyledons have fleshy cotyledons in place of the endosperm. Endosperm survives and stores nourishment in mature seeds of monocotyledons. Proteins and lipids are also present in the endosperm tissue, which is likewise high in carbohydrates.

The endosperm is tissue present in the vicinity of the embryo formed as a result of triple fusion (fusion of 2 polar nuclei with a male gamete) that nourishes the developing embryo.

The seeds of these cereals consist of the aleurone layer, which is proteinaceous in nature. This layer helps in the separation of the endosperm from the embryo. These seeds carry a part of the endosperm without totally consuming it and are known as endospermic seeds.

What are the Functions of the Endosperm?

The endosperm serves the following purposes:

  • The development of an embryo depends on the endosperm, which also stores the food resource.
  • To the growing embryo, they provide nutrients and shelter.
  • It has been shown that endospermic tissues control gene expression during the germination of a seed.
  • In response to environmental factors, endosperm sends signals that control embryonic development.
  • The cytokinin found in the endosperm controls cellular differentiation.
  • It could cause genetically unmatched seeds from a cross to abort.

Final Answer

Yes, the endosperm is persistent in cereals – wheat, rice and maize.

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