Endosperm, a product of double fertilisation in angiosperm is absent in the seeds of

Options

A. coconut
B. orchids
C. maize
D. castor

Answer

To solve the question regarding the absence of endosperm in the seeds of certain angiosperms, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the concept of endosperm
Endosperm is a tissue that provides nourishment to the developing embryo in seeds. It is formed as a result of double fertilization, where one male gamete fertilizes the egg to form the embryo, and the other male gamete fuses with two polar nuclei in the central cell to form the triploid endosperm.

**Hint:** Remember that endosperm is crucial for the nutrition of the embryo during its development.

### Step 2: Identify the process of double fertilization
In angiosperms, double fertilization involves two fusions: one between a male gamete and an egg cell, and the other between a second male gamete and the central cell. This leads to the formation of the embryo and the endosperm.

**Hint:** Focus on the two distinct fertilization events that occur during the process.

### Step 3: Analyze the options provided
The question lists four options: coconut, orchid, maize, and castor. We need to determine in which of these the endosperm is absent.

**Hint:** Consider the characteristics of each plant and how they utilize endosperm during seed development.

### Step 4: Examine the case of orchids
In orchids, during the development of the embryo, it is noted that the embryo consumes the entire endosperm. As a result, there is no endosperm left in the mature seed.

**Hint:** Think about how the embryo's growth might affect the presence of endosperm in seeds.

### Step 5: Conclude the answer
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is that endosperm is absent in the seeds of orchids.

**Final Answer:** Endosperm is absent in the seeds of orchids.