Q.Describe in brief the origin and development of fruit. What is the significance of seed formation? (2+1)

Fertilisation triggers the ovary to develop into a fruit and the ovules into seeds; the seed is central to protecting, nourishing and dispersing the next generation.

Origin and development of fruit: After double fertilisation in an angiosperm flower, the zygote develops into the embryo, and other floral parts undergo transformation:

• The ovary wall develops and matures into the pericarp (fruit wall), which may differentiate into three layers — the epicarp (outer skin), mesocarp (middle, often fleshy), and endocarp (innermost layer around the seed).
• The ovules within the ovary develop into seeds, each containing the embryo and (in many species) endosperm as stored food.
• In most plants, other floral parts (sepals, petals, stamens, style) wither and fall off once fertilisation is complete, while the ovary enlarges to become the fruit that encloses and protects the developing seeds. (In some species, fruits can even develop without fertilisation — a phenomenon called parthenocarpy.)

Significance of seed formation:

1. The seed contains the embryo (the next generation) along with stored food reserves, ensuring the young plant has nutrition to germinate and establish itself.
2. Seeds can enter a state of dormancy, allowing them to survive unfavourable conditions (drought, cold, etc.) until conditions become favourable for germination. …