Module: | Double Fertilization & Endosperm
Q83: Consider the following statements regarding the formation of the aril:
1. In certain fruits such as Litchi, a fleshy, edible covering develops from the funicle or the base of the ovule post-fertilization.
2. This specific accessory structure is botanically termed the aril and is often considered a specialized third integument.
3. The aril is formed structurally before fertilization occurs in order to attract specific insect pollinators to the flower.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. This specific accessory structure is botanically termed the aril and is often considered a specialized third integument.
3. The aril is formed structurally before fertilization occurs in order to attract specific insect pollinators to the flower.
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 fundamentally incorrect.
The ovule is typically protected by one (unitegmic) or two (bitegmic) integuments.
However, in some species, a highly specialized extra covering develops.
In the Litchi (Litchi chinensis), this structure arises from the base of the ovule (chalaza) or the funicle stalk.
It grows rapidly to surround the seed, forming the sweet, white, juicy, and edible part of the fruit.
Botanically, this is known as the aril, often classified as a third integument.
Statement 3 confuses ecological timelines.
The aril does not form before fertilization and has absolutely nothing to do with attracting insect pollinators.
Causally, it develops exclusively post-fertilization as the seed matures.
Its evolutionary purpose is zoochory: providing a massive, nutritious reward to attract animals and birds that will eat the fruit and disperse the hard seed within.
The ovule is typically protected by one (unitegmic) or two (bitegmic) integuments.
However, in some species, a highly specialized extra covering develops.
In the Litchi (Litchi chinensis), this structure arises from the base of the ovule (chalaza) or the funicle stalk.
It grows rapidly to surround the seed, forming the sweet, white, juicy, and edible part of the fruit.
Botanically, this is known as the aril, often classified as a third integument.
Statement 3 confuses ecological timelines.
The aril does not form before fertilization and has absolutely nothing to do with attracting insect pollinators.
Causally, it develops exclusively post-fertilization as the seed matures.
Its evolutionary purpose is zoochory: providing a massive, nutritious reward to attract animals and birds that will eat the fruit and disperse the hard seed within.