Exogenous GA induce formation of male flowers on genetically female plants of

Options

A. Cucurbita
B. Luffa
C. Cucumis
D. Carica

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Exogenous GA**: Exogenous GA refers to gibberellic acid that is applied externally to plants. Gibberellic acid is a plant hormone that plays a crucial role in various growth processes.

2. **Role of Gibberellic Acid**: Gibberellic acid promotes the development of male flowers in certain plants. In this context, it is particularly noted for its effect on genetically female plants.

3. **Specific Example**: The question specifically mentions the formation of male flowers on genetically female plants of the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly known as the cucumber family. Here, exogenous application of gibberellic acid can induce the formation of male flowers.

4. **Comparison with Other Hormones**: While gibberellic acid promotes male flower formation in cucurbits, it is also important to note that other hormones, such as ethylene, can influence flower development in different ways. For example, ethylene promotes male flower formation in the same family, particularly in the case of cucumbers.

5. **Mechanism of Action**: The mechanism by which gibberellic acid induces male flower formation involves the activation of specific pathways that may not be active in genetically female plants. This leads to a dominance of male flowers when gibberellic acid is applied.

6. **Additional Roles of Gibberellic Acid**: Beyond inducing male flower formation, gibberellic acid has several other important roles, such as breaking dormancy in seeds, promoting germination, and aiding in the sprouting of potato tubers.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the application of exogenous gibberellic acid can successfully induce the formation of male flowers on genetically female plants, particularly in the Cucurbitaceae family.

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