Arrange the given layers of microsporangium starting from inside to outside in correct sequence.
A. Middle layers
B. Tapetum
C. Endothecium
D. Epidermis
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → B, A, C, D
A microsporangium is surrounded by four wall layers. From outside to inside they are the epidermis, the endothecium, the middle layers and the tapetum. The question asks for the order from inside to outside.
(B) Tapetum — this comes first. It is the innermost wall layer. Its cells have dense cytoplasm and often more than one nucleus. It nourishes the developing pollen grains.
(A) Middle layers — this comes second. They lie just outside the tapetum.
(C) Endothecium — this comes third. It lies outside the middle layers.
(D) Epidermis — this comes last. It is the outermost layer. With the endothecium and the middle layers, it protects the sporangium and helps the anther to open and release the pollen.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 29-05-2026 (Slot 1), on 25-05-2026 (Slot 1), on 22-05-2026 (Slot 2) and on 19-05-2026 (Slot 1), in CUET (UG) 2025 on 02-06-2025 (Slot 2), and in CUET (UG) 2023 on 11-06-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT Extract:
Stamen, Microsporangium and Pollen Grain – “… Structure of microsporangium: In a transverse section, a typical microsporangium appears near circular in outline. It is generally surrounded by four wall layers (Figure 1.3b)– the epidermis, endothecium, middle layers and the tapetum. The outer three wall layers perform the function of protection and help in dehiscence of anther to release the pollen. The innermost wall layer is the tapetum. It nourishes the developing pollen grains.”