the female inflorescence of maize is

Options

A. spadix
B. spike
C. catkin
D. corymb

Answer

To answer the question about the female inflorescence of maize, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Inflorescence**: Inflorescence refers to the arrangement of flowers on a plant. Different types of inflorescences have specific characteristics and structures.

2. **Identifying the Female Inflorescence of Maize**: The female inflorescence of maize is known as the "ear." It is important to differentiate between the male and female parts of the maize plant.

3. **Analyzing the Options**: The options given are:
- A) Spadix
- B) Spike
- C) Catkin
- D) Corymb

4. **Evaluating Each Option**:
- **Spadix**: This is a type of inflorescence that has a fleshy axis and is surrounded by bracts. It can contain both male and female flowers. However, it is not specifically the female inflorescence of maize.
- **Spike**: This is an inflorescence where flowers are attached directly to the stem without pedicels. It is not the female inflorescence of maize.
- **Catkin**: This is a pendulous spike that typically bears unisexual flowers. It is not found in maize.
- **Corymb**: This type has a flat-topped arrangement of flowers, with lower flowers having longer pedicels. It is not the female inflorescence of maize.

5. **Conclusion**: After evaluating the options, the correct answer is not explicitly listed among the options provided. The female inflorescence of maize is typically referred to as the "ear," which is not one of the options. However, based on the context of the question and the provided information, the closest option that resembles a structure with both male and female flowers is "spadix," even though it does not accurately describe the maize ear.

### Final Answer:
The female inflorescence of maize is referred to as the "ear," but among the provided options, the closest answer is **spadix**.

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