Question

Free nuclear division occurs in

• A. Flower
• B. Gametes
• C. Endosperm
• D. Fruit

Answer 1

The correct option is C Endosperm

Free nuclear divisions occur in Endosperm. Endosperm is of three types: Cellular, Nuclear and Helobial. But only nuclear and helobial have free nuclear divisions.

• Nuclear Endosperm: It is common and found in 56% of angiosperm families. During the development of nuclear type of endosperm, the primary endosperm mother cell divides by free nuclear divisions, and these divisions are not followed by cell wall formation. Thus, the free nuclei remain in the cytoplasm of the embryo sac.
  
• Helobial Endosperm: It is found in 19% of angiosperm families, particularly monocotyledons. This type of endosperm is intermediate between cellular and nuclear endosperms and is formed due to the formation of a large micropylar and a small chalazal chamber by a mitotic division in the primary endosperm mother cell. The nucleus of chalazal chamber remains undivided or divides by a few mitotic divisions whereas the nucleus of micropylar chamber divides by free nuclear divisions, which are followed by centripetal cell wall formation.
  

Hence, free nuclear divisions occur in Endosperm.

So, the correct answer is C.