Question

In an exalbuminous seed

• A. The endosperm is formed prior to fertilization
• B. The endosperm is formed after fertilization and the mature seed lacks endosperm
• C. The mature seed contains endosperm
• D. Endosperm formation itself is absent

Answer 1

The correct option is B

The endosperm is formed after fertilization and the mature seed lacks endosperm

Seeds that possess a special food storage tissue called the endosperm are said to be albuminous and those which have no such tissue for storage are said to be exalbuminous or non-endospermic. The endosperm is formed as a result of double fertilisation in seeds but the mature seed lacks athe endosperm as it is used by the embryo during growth. Such seeds without the endosperm are called ex-albuminous. In albuminous seeds food is being stored in endosperm and the cotyledons are small and thin while exalbuminous seeds cotylesdon store up food and become thick and fleshy. When germination of seed takes place then food is used by embryo whether it is stored in endosperm or in cotyledons.