Arrange the following wall layers of microsporangium starting from outer to inner layer.
(A) Tapetum
(B) Endothecium
(C) Middle layers
(D) Epidermis
Choose the correct answer from the options given below.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → (D), (B), (C), (A)
(D) Epidermis — outermost. It is the single protective layer on the outside of the anther.
(B) Endothecium — second. It lies just inside the epidermis and helps the anther to burst open (dehiscence) and release the pollen.
(C) Middle layers — third. These two or three layers lie between the endothecium and the tapetum.
(A) Tapetum — innermost. It surrounds the sporogenous tissue and nourishes the developing pollen grains.
Note: The same question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2025 on 02-06-2025 (Slot 2) and on 13-05-2025 (Slot 2), and a similar question in CUET (UG) 2026 on 25-05-2026 (Slot 1).
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.”
