Question

In the fruit of pomegranate, the edible part is

• A. Juicy epicarp
• B. Juicy testa
• C. Pulpy mesocarp
• D. Placental hair

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Juicy testa

The correct option is B.

Explanation for correct option:

1. The edible part is the fruit of the pomegranate is the juicy testa.
2. Pomegranate is a fruit made of an outer hard layer called exocarp and partially mesocarp which usually contains pulp rich in fatty acids, various amino acids, and vitamins.
3. The endocarp is the innermost layer that covers the seeds as a papery structure and therefore the seeds have modified fleshy testa which may be eaten.
4. The seeds provide the plants the ability to grow by going dormant for a number of days and germination in the right environmental conditions.
5. The embryo is shielded by the seed coat, and the seeds store the nutrients needed for germination.

Explanation for incorrect options:

Option A

1. Epicarp is the hard outermost layer of the pomegranate that covers and protects the seeds from environmental conditions..

Option C

1. Mesocarp is the middle layer that partially surrounds the seeds and contains pulp rich in fatty acids, various amino acids, and vitamins.
2. Mesocarp leads to the formation of septa in the fruit.

Option D

1. The leathery epicarp, fibrous mesocarp, and luscious placental hairs are edible portions of the hesperidium fruit known as the orange.

Final answer: In the fruit of pomegranate, the edible part is the juicy testa.