Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

Question:

The fruits that develop without fertilization are called as :

Options:

True fruits

False fruits

Parthenocarpic fruits

Hybrid fruit

Correct Answer:

Parthenocarpic fruits

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (3): Parthenocarpic fruits

Parthenocarpy is a condition in which fruits develop without the formation of seeds, primarily due to the absence of fertilization, pollination, and embryo development in plants. In botanical terms, parthenocarpic fruits are often referred to as "virgin fruits" and are typically seedless.

During agricultural cultivation, parthenocarpy can be induced by the application of plant hormones, including gibberellic acid. This process leads to the maturation of ovaries without the need for fertilization, resulting in the production of larger and pulpy fruits. This technique is applicable to a wide range of crops, including various varieties of squash, cucumbers, and more.

An excellent example of parthenocarpy is seen in bananas, where the produced fruits are sterile, lacking viable ovaries and seeds. As a result, bananas are typically propagated vegetatively. Pineapples and figs are other natural examples of parthenocarpy.

Various fruits, such as pineapples, bananas, cucumbers, and grapes, exhibit parthenocarpy. They develop without the need for fertilization and are often characterized by their seedless nature.