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Question #46273
The Question
In an experiment, the developing floral primordia of a plant belonging to the family Fabaceae are treated with a specific inhibitor that blocks polar auxin transport. Which of the following represents the most likely phenotypic alteration in the mature flower, and how would it reflect in its floral formula?
Options
- A.
The flower loses its bilateral symmetry, changing the floral formula symbol from % to ⊕.
- B.
The flower exhibits exaggerated bilateral symmetry, changing the aestivation from vexillary to imbricate.
- C.
The androecium fails to fuse, changing the floral formula from A(9)+1 to A10.
- D.
The ovary becomes inferior due to disrupted thalamus growth, changing the symbol from G_ to G‾.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Fabaceae Floral Formula|Auxin Polarity|Floral Symmetry
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students memorize that Fabaceae is zygomorphic (%) but rarely connect floral symmetry to developmental phytohormone gradients.
The trap tests the understanding that zygomorphy is an actively maintained, evolutionarily derived trait requiring auxin polarity; its disruption leads to a reversion to the default actinomorphic (⊕) state.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Morphology of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Fabaceae Floral Formula |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |