Which layer of microsporangium nourishes the developing pollen grains?

The correct answer is Option (4) → Tapetum

Option (4) Tapetum — Correct. The innermost wall layer of the microsporangium is the tapetum. Its cells have dense cytoplasm and generally more than one nucleus, and it nourishes the developing pollen grains.

Note: The same question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 14-05-2026 (Slot 2), and in CUET (UG) 2025 on 27-05-2025 (Slot 2), and a similar question in CUET (UG) 2023 on 11-06-2023 (Slot 3), and in CUET (UG) 2022 on 16-07-2022 (Slot 1).

NCERT Extract:
Stamen, Microsporangium and Pollen Grain – “… Structure of microsporangium: In a transverse of an anther 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.”