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Question #47548
The Question
Consider the embryogeny and seed development in Pinus (a gymnosperm) and Zea mays (an angiosperm). Which of the following statements accurately describes the physiological and evolutionary basis of their endosperm formation?
Options
- A.
In Pinus, the endosperm is the pre-fertilization haploid female gametophyte, representing an obligatory maternal investment prior to fertilization, whereas in Zea mays, it is a post-fertilization triploid tissue triggered by triple fusion.
- B.
The endosperm of Pinus is a post-fertilization haploid tissue formed by the independent division of the megaspore, whereas in Zea mays, it is formed by the fusion of one male gamete with two synergids.
- C.
Both plants utilize a post-fertilization nutrient sink; however, Pinus forms a diploid endosperm from the nucellus, while Zea mays forms a triploid endosperm from the central cell.
- D.
In Pinus, the persistent endosperm is a triploid evolutionary relic that develops independently of syngamy, whereas in Zea mays, endosperm development strictly precedes zygote formation.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Gymnosperm Endosperm|Proembryo|Cleavage Polyembryony|Generative Cell Division
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize 'Endosperm provides nourishment to the embryo' and assume its formation and ploidy are uniform across all seed plants.
The trap lies in failing to distinguish the evolutionary origin: Gymnosperm endosperm is a pre-fertilization haploid gametophyte, while Angiosperm endosperm is a post-fertilization triploid product of double fertilization.
This fundamental difference dictates maternal resource allocation strategies.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Plant Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Gymnosperm Endosperm Identity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |