Which of the following layer of anther wall helps in protection as well as in the dehiscence of anther for the release of pollen grains ?

Options

A. Epidermis
B. Tapetum and endothecium
C. Endothecium only
D. Outer three layers of anther wall

Answer

To solve the question regarding which layer of the anther wall helps in protection as well as in the dehiscence of the anther for the release of pollen grains, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure of the Anther:**
- The anther is a part of the stamen in flowering plants and is responsible for producing pollen grains. It consists of four layers: epidermis, endothesium, middle layers, and tapetum.

2. **Identifying the Layers:**
- **Epidermis:** This is the outermost layer, primarily serving a protective function.
- **Endothesium:** This layer lies beneath the epidermis and is typically a single layer. It plays a significant role in the dehiscence of the anther.
- **Middle Layers:** These layers are located between the endothesium and the tapetum and also contribute to protection.
- **Tapetum:** This is the innermost layer, which is nutritive and secretory, providing nourishment to the developing pollen grains.

3. **Analyzing Functions:**
- The **epidermis** and **middle layers** are mainly protective.
- The **tapetum** is involved in nourishment and secretion.
- The **endothesium** is unique because, while it has protective functions, it also undergoes significant development to facilitate the dehiscence of the anther, allowing for the release of pollen grains.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the functions of these layers, the **endothesium** is the layer that helps in both protection and dehiscence of the anther for the release of pollen grains. Therefore, the correct answer is **endothesium**.

### Final Answer:
The layer of the anther wall that helps in protection as well as in the dehiscence of the anther for the release of pollen grains is the **endothesium**.

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