Sclereids are found in all of the following except:
a) Solid endosperm of coconut
b) Fruit wall of nuts
c) Seed coat of legumes and leaves of tea
d) Pulp of fruits like pear, guava and sapota

Options

A. Solid endosperm of coconut
B. Fruit wall of nuts
C. Seed coat of legumes and leaves of tea
D. Pulp of fruits like pear, guava and sapota

Answer

To solve the question regarding the presence of sclereids in various plant structures, we will analyze each option provided in the question step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Sclereids**:
- Sclereids are a type of sclerenchyma cell that provides mechanical support to various plant parts. They are characterized by their thick walls and are typically dead at maturity.

2. **Evaluating Each Option**:
- **Option a: Solid endosperm of coconut**:
- The endosperm is the tissue that provides nourishment to the developing seed. In coconuts, the solid endosperm does not contain sclereids. Instead, sclereids are found in the hard outer layers (endocarp and mesocarp) of the coconut, not in the endosperm itself.

- **Option b: Fruit wall of nuts**:
- The fruit wall of nuts is typically hard and contains sclereids, which contribute to the hardness and protection of the seed inside.

- **Option c: Seed coat of legumes and leaves of tea**:
- The seed coat of legumes and the leaves of tea contain various types of sclereids, including macrosclerites and astrosclerites, which provide structural support.

- **Option d: Pulp of fruits like pear, guava, and sapota**:
- The pulp of these fruits contains brachysclereids, which contribute to the texture and stiffness of the fruit.

3. **Conclusion**:
- After evaluating all the options, it is clear that sclereids are present in options b, c, and d. However, they are absent in option a, the solid endosperm of coconut. Therefore, the correct answer is:
- **Answer**: a) Solid endosperm of coconut