Epithelia layer of Maize scutellum secretes the hormone

Options

A. Auxin
B. Cytokinin
C. Gibberellin
D. Ethylene

Answer

To determine which hormone is secreted by the epithelial layer of the maize scutellum, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Structure**: Recognize that maize is a monocot and its seed contains an endosperm. The embryo of the maize seed has a structure called the scutellum, which is a reduced cotyledon.

2. **Identify the Function of the Scutellum**: The epithelial layer of the maize scutellum plays a crucial role in the seed's development. It is responsible for secreting hormones that aid in the growth and development of the seed.

3. **List the Hormones**: The hormones in question are auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin, and ethylene.

4. **Analyze Each Hormone**:
- **Auxin**: Primarily responsible for shoot elongation but not secreted by the scutellum.
- **Cytokinin**: Promotes cell division but is not secreted by the scutellum.
- **Gibberellin**: This hormone is known to help in cell elongation and is also involved in the breakdown of reserve food materials in the endosperm.
- **Ethylene**: Primarily involved in the ripening of fruits and is not secreted by the scutellum.

5. **Determine the Correct Hormone**: Given that gibberellin is involved in breaking down reserve food materials and is secreted by the epithelial layer of the maize scutellum, it is the correct answer.

6. **Final Answer**: The hormone secreted by the epithelial layer of the maize scutellum is **gibberellin**.