Module: | Pre-fertilization: Micro/Megasporogenesis
Q24: Consider the following statements regarding the formation and function of the suspensor:
1. The suspensor is a multi-celled structure formed from the transverse division of the basal cell during early embryogeny.
2. Its primary mechanical function is to push the developing proembryo deeper into the endosperm to access nutrition.
3. The suspensor remains a permanent, highly active living structure even in the fully mature, dry seed.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. Its primary mechanical function is to push the developing proembryo deeper into the endosperm to access nutrition.
3. The suspensor remains a permanent, highly active living structure even in the fully mature, dry seed.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
✅ Correct Answer: A
The correct option is A. Statements 1 and 2 are correct, whereas Statement 3 is incorrect.
During the very first division of the zygote, it forms a small terminal cell (which will become the embryo) and a larger basal cell facing the micropyle.
The basal cell undergoes repeated transverse divisions to form a structural filament of 6 to 10 cells known as the suspensor.
The causal purpose of the suspensor is purely mechanical and nutritional: it elongates to physically push the developing embryo deeper into the nutrient-rich endosperm tissue.
Statement 3 is incorrect because the suspensor is a temporary embryonic organ.
Once the embryo reaches the later heart-shaped or torpedo stages and the seed begins to mature and dehydrate, the suspensor undergoes programmed cell death (apoptosis) and degenerates, leaving no functional trace in the dry seed.
During the very first division of the zygote, it forms a small terminal cell (which will become the embryo) and a larger basal cell facing the micropyle.
The basal cell undergoes repeated transverse divisions to form a structural filament of 6 to 10 cells known as the suspensor.
The causal purpose of the suspensor is purely mechanical and nutritional: it elongates to physically push the developing embryo deeper into the nutrient-rich endosperm tissue.
Statement 3 is incorrect because the suspensor is a temporary embryonic organ.
Once the embryo reaches the later heart-shaped or torpedo stages and the seed begins to mature and dehydrate, the suspensor undergoes programmed cell death (apoptosis) and degenerates, leaving no functional trace in the dry seed.