(a) Give a detailed account on parthenocarpy. Add a note on its significance.

Explanation

Parthenocarpy is the development of a fruit without prior fertilization. Such fruits are called parthenocarpic fruits, which do not have true seeds. Most of the seedless commercial fruits are made by this method. Eg: Banana, Grapes, Papaya.
Nitsch in 1963 classified the parthenocarpy into following types :
Genetic Parthenocarpy : Genetically by hybridization or mutation, these fruits are produced. Eg: Citrus, Cucurbita.
Environmental Parthenocarpy : The parthenocarpic fruits are produced by changing environmental conditions such as frost, fog, low temperature, high temperature etc., Eg: Exposure for 3-19 hrs in low temperature induces parthenocarpy in Pear. 19 hrs in low
Chemically induced parthenocarpy : Some of growth promoting substances like auxins and gibberellins induce parthenocarpy . Significance of parthenocarpy :
(i) In horticulture, the seedless fruits have great importance.
(ii) The seedless fruits have great commercial value.
(iii) In the preparation of jams, jellies, sauces, fruit drinks etc., the seedless fruits are useful.
(iv) Due to the absence of seeds, the parthenocarpic fruits have high proportion of edible part.