In a gymnosperm, the endosperm

Options

A. Develops without fertilization
B. Forms after fertilization but does not require triple fusion
C. Is diploid
D. Is short-lived.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Endosperm in Gymnosperms**:
- In gymnosperms, the endosperm is a tissue that provides nourishment to the developing embryo.

2. **Formation of Endosperm**:
- The endosperm in gymnosperms develops **before fertilization**. This is a key difference from angiosperms where endosperm forms after fertilization.

3. **Source of Endosperm**:
- The endosperm in gymnosperms is derived from **maternal tissue**. This means it does not arise from fertilized ovules but rather from the tissue surrounding the ovule.

4. **Chromosome Number**:
- Since the endosperm develops from maternal tissue, it is **diploid** (2n), meaning it contains two sets of chromosomes.

5. **Comparison with Angiosperms**:
- In angiosperms, the endosperm is formed after fertilization and requires a process called triple fusion. However, in gymnosperms, this is not the case.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer to the question is that in gymnosperms, the endosperm is **diploid** and develops without fertilization.

### Final Answer:
In a gymnosperm, the endosperm is **diploid**.