Question

The three subfamilies of Leguminosae are distinquished mainly on the basis of

• A. Nature of gynoecium
• B. Nature of corolla and stamens
• C. Nature of habit of the plants
• D. Nature of fruit

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Nature of corolla and stamens

Family Leguminosae is classified into three subfamilies, Papilionadae, Caesalpinioideae and Mimosaceae on the basis of nature of corolla and stamens.
The subfamily Papilionadae is characterized by vexillary aestivation wherein one margin of the two lateral petals is overlapped by the posterior petal. Another margin of these two lateral petals overlaps the two anterior petals that are united. The united anterior petal form keel or carina.
The subfamily Caesalpinioideae exhibit imbricate aestivation in which margin of petals overlaps each other in irregular fashion.
The subfamily Mimosaceae exhibits valvate aestivation wherein margins of adjacent petals or sepals just touch each other without overlapping.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B.