Question

The hard covering of seeds and nuts is due to:

• A. Parenchyma
• B. Sclerenchyma
• C. Collenchyma
• D. Aerenchyma

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Sclerenchyma

The correct option is B:

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Sclerenchyma cells form the permanent tissue in plants.
2. Sclerenchyma is composed of dead cells, therefore they form a stiff and hard layer.
3. Sclerenchyma is present mainly around the vascular bundle in the veins of leaves.
4. They form a hard covering around the seeds and nuts.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

1. Parenchyma cells are found in the soft parts of plants.
2. Parenchyma cells are thin-walled and made up of cellulose.

Option C:

1. Collenchyma cells are found in the petiole, leaves, and young stem.
2. They are made up of cellulose and pectin.

Option D:

1. Aerenchyma is a type of parenchymatous tissue which contains air in the intercellular spaces.
2. Aerenchyma provides buoyancy and helps in the floating of aquatic plants.

Final answer: The hard covering of seeds and nuts is due to sclerenchyma.