Residual and persistent nucellus present in some seeds is called:

The correct answer is Option (3) → Perisperm

Option (1) Seed coat — Incorrect. The seed coat forms from the integuments of the ovule, which harden into a tough protective layer. It is not left-over nucellus.

Option (2) Pericarp — Incorrect. The pericarp is the fruit wall, formed from the wall of the ovary. It lies outside the seed.

Option (3) Perisperm — Correct. Of the options, only perisperm is a tissue left inside a seed from the nucellus of the ovule. Seed coat comes from the integuments, and pericarp from the ovary wall.

Option (4) Achene — Incorrect. An achene is a small dry fruit with one seed that does not split open. It is a kind of fruit, not a tissue inside a seed.

Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 07-06-2023 (Slot 3).

NCERT Extract:
Seed – “… Albuminous seeds retain a part of endosperm as it is not completely used up during embryo development (e.g., wheat, maize, barley, castor). Occasionally, in some seeds such as black pepper and beet, remnants of nucellus are also persistent. This residual, persistent nucellus is the perisperm.”