Question

In seeds, characterised by hypogeal germination, cotyledons generally do not become green because

• A. they lack mitochondria
• B. they develop very early
• C. they contain inhibitor
• D. they remain below the soil

Answer 1

The correct option is D they remain below the soil

During hypogeal germination, the cotyledons along with the hypocotyl remain in the soil and only the epicotyl region emerges from the soil. In this manner, the epicotyl elongates, pushing the plumule upward and they emerge out of the soil.
The parts of a plant appear green because of the presence of green color pigment known as chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is necessary for the process of photosynthesis by the plants. For photosynthesis. Most part of the seed remains underground during hypogeal germination. So, they don’t become green, they dry up and fall off.
Germinating seeds do contain mitochondria which provide energy in the form of ATP for the process of germination to be carried out.
Type of germination (epigeal or hypogeal) doesn’t necessarily depend on the time of germination (early or late).
Some seeds do contain inhibitory substances that inhibit germination and growth, but this has nothing to do with the cotyledons becoming green.