Papaya (Carica papaya) is a fleshy fruit and is known as :

Options

A. pome
B. composite
C. berry
D. drupe

Answer

To determine what type of fruit papaya (Carica papaya) is, we can analyze the characteristics of the fruit and compare them with the definitions of different fruit types.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Scientific Name**: The scientific name of papaya is Carica papaya. This helps in confirming the specific plant we are discussing.

2. **Understand the Characteristics of Papaya**: Papaya is described as a fleshy fruit. This means it has a soft, edible outer layer, which is a key characteristic of several fruit types.

3. **Define a Berry**: A berry is a type of fleshy fruit that develops from a single pistil. It is typically pulpy and may contain multiple seeds, but does not have a true stone.

4. **Analyze the Structure of Papaya**: Papaya fits the definition of a berry because it is a pulpy fruit that develops from a single pistil and contains numerous seeds without a true stone.

5. **Evaluate Other Fruit Types**:
- **Pome**: This type of fruit has a fleshy receptacle and a tough central core containing seeds (e.g., apples, pears). Papaya does not fit this description.
- **Composite (Multiple) Fruit**: This fruit type develops from a cluster of flowers (inflorescence) and forms a group of small fruitlets (e.g., pineapples). Papaya does not form from multiple flowers.
- **Drupe**: A drupe has a fleshy exterior and a central stone containing seeds (e.g., cherries, plums). Papaya lacks this stone structure.

6. **Conclusion**: Since papaya meets the criteria for a berry and does not fit the definitions of pome, composite fruit, or drupe, we conclude that papaya is classified as a berry.

### Final Answer:
Papaya (Carica papaya) is known as a **berry**.