Question

Parkinsonia is a good example of

• A. Winged fruit
• B. Phyllode
• C. Parachute mechanism
• D. Phylloclade

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Phyllode

The correct option is B.

Explanation of correct option:

1. The term "phyllode" refers to a plant whose petiole changes appearance to resemble a leaf as a result of environmental factors.
2. Additionally, it has the capacity for photosynthesis and serves as foliage.
3. Phyllodes can also develop from main stems such as branches and flower stalks.
4. Phyllodes are also seen in the Mexican palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeata).

Explanation of Incorrect options:

Option A:

1. These are either fruits with wings along the length of them that do not help with wind dispersion or fruits with well-developed wings that do help with wind dispersion.
2. Winged fruits and seeds both aid in wind dispersal.

Option C:

1. The wind scatters parachutes fruits.
2. The seed is sent into the air like a parachute by the smallest breeze that touches the intricate crown of plumose hairs.
3. This is the Eurasian dandelion's typical method of dissemination (Taraxacum officinale).

Option D:

1. Flattened photosynthetic shoots known as phylloclades and cladodes are frequently referred to as modified branches.
2. Different authors use the two phrases in conflict or interchangeably.
3. These features inspired the genus of conifers known as Phyllocladus.

Final Answer: Parkinsonia is a good example of Phyllode.