Module: | Pollination & Outbreeding Devices
Q49: Consider the following statements regarding the epiblast in monocotyledonous embryos:
1. In the embryos of certain grasses, a small flap-like structure situated opposite to the scutellum is present, termed the epiblast.
2. Botanically, the epiblast is widely considered to represent the rudimentary or vestigial remains of a second cotyledon.
3. The epiblast is a massive, highly active, nutrient-rich structure that directly nourishes the developing radicle during germination.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. Botanically, the epiblast is widely considered to represent the rudimentary or vestigial remains of a second cotyledon.
3. The epiblast is a massive, highly active, nutrient-rich structure that directly nourishes the developing radicle during germination.
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 entirely incorrect.
The grass family (Poaceae) possesses a highly specialized monocot embryo.
Structurally, it features a single, prominent, shield-shaped cotyledon called the scutellum, which is laterally attached to the embryonal axis and serves to absorb nutrients from the endosperm.
However, in many grass species (such as wheat), a tiny, scale-like appendage can be observed on the side of the embryonal axis directly opposite the scutellum.
This is the epiblast.
Evolutionary biologists and anatomists classify the epiblast as the vestigial remnant of the second cotyledon that was lost during the evolutionary divergence of monocots from dicots.
Statement 3 is false because, being vestigial, the epiblast is a non-functional, microscopic structure with absolutely no role in nutrient storage or radicle nourishment.
The grass family (Poaceae) possesses a highly specialized monocot embryo.
Structurally, it features a single, prominent, shield-shaped cotyledon called the scutellum, which is laterally attached to the embryonal axis and serves to absorb nutrients from the endosperm.
However, in many grass species (such as wheat), a tiny, scale-like appendage can be observed on the side of the embryonal axis directly opposite the scutellum.
This is the epiblast.
Evolutionary biologists and anatomists classify the epiblast as the vestigial remnant of the second cotyledon that was lost during the evolutionary divergence of monocots from dicots.
Statement 3 is false because, being vestigial, the epiblast is a non-functional, microscopic structure with absolutely no role in nutrient storage or radicle nourishment.