Long silky hairs coming out of the cob of maize are

Options

A. Meant for fruit dispersal
B. Long styles and stigma
C. Meant for attracting insects
D. Lodicules

Answer

To answer the question "Long silky hairs coming out of the cob of maize are," we will analyze the options provided and identify the correct one step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure**: The cob of maize refers to the central core of the ear of corn, which contains the kernels. The long silky hairs that emerge from the cob are known as silk.

2. **Identifying the Function**: The primary function of these silky hairs (silk) is to facilitate pollination. Each silk strand corresponds to an ovule in the ear, and they play a crucial role in capturing pollen grains.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1: Meant for fruit disposal** - This is incorrect as the silky hairs are not involved in fruit disposal.
- **Option 2: Long styles and stigma** - This is correct. The silky hairs are indeed the styles and stigmas of the female flowers, which are designed to catch pollen.
- **Option 3: Meant for attracting insects** - While some plants do have structures to attract insects, the silky hairs of maize are not primarily for this purpose.
- **Option 4: Laudicules** - These are small structures at the base of the flower and are not related to the silky hairs.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is that the long silky hairs coming out of the cob of maize are "long styles and stigma."

### Final Answer:
The long silky hairs coming out of the cob of maize are **long styles and stigma**.

---