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Question #46264
The Question
A mutant angiosperm lacks a functional filiform apparatus, completely preventing pollen tube entry into the embryo sac. Despite this gametic failure, the plant successfully produces mature fruits containing viable seeds via apomixis. Which of the following statements correctly explains the genetic makeup of the pericarp in these fruits?
Options
- A.
It is genetically identical to the maternal plant because the apomictic process bypasses meiosis, directly converting the unfertilized egg cell into both the embryo and the pericarp.
- B.
It is genetically identical to the maternal plant because the pericarp develops from the diploid ovary wall, a strictly maternal somatic tissue unaffected by the failure of fertilization.
- C.
It is genetically identical to the maternal plant, but its formation is strictly dependent on the autonomous development of a triploid endosperm to provide growth hormones.
- D.
It exhibits genetic variation from the maternal plant because the failure of pollen tube entry induces parthenocarpy, which alters the ploidy of the fruit wall.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Apomixis Genetics|Fruit Structure DNA|Synergid Filiform Apparatus
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Distinguishing between the developmental origins of the seed (which can be sexual or apomictic) and the fruit wall (which is strictly maternal somatic tissue).
The trap exploits the common misconception that specialized reproductive strategies like apomixis govern the genetics of the entire fruit structure, causing students to forget that the pericarp is always a direct, un-recombined continuation of the maternal ovary wall.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Morphology of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Fruit Structure DNA |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |