Monocot Seeds: Endosperm Variations — NEET Biology

Correct answer: D — A-3-Q, B-1-P, C-2-R, D-4-S

NCERT core concept: Seeds are classified based on the number of cotyledons and the presence or absence of endosperm, each type having distinct structural features and examples. A. Dicotyledonous (Endospermic) matches with Castor (3). NCERT states: "In some seeds such as castor the endosperm formed as a result of double fertilisation, is a food storing tissue and called endospermic seeds." Thus, its key feature is Q. Food stored primarily in endosperm. B. Monocotyledonous (Endospermic) matches with Maize (1). NCERT states: "In the seeds of cereals such as maize... It consists of one large and shield shaped cotyledon known as scutellum..." Thus, its key feature is P. Embryo with one large, shield-shaped cotyledon (scutellum). C. Dicotyledonous (Non-endospermic) matches with Gram (2). NCERT states: "In plants such as bean, gram and pea, the endosperm is not present in mature seeds and such seeds are called non-endospermous." In such seeds, "The cotyledons are often fleshy and full of reserve food materials." Thus, its key feature is R. Endosperm absent in mature seed; food stored in fleshy cotyledons. D. Monocotyledonous (Non-endospermic) matches with Orchid (4). NCERT states: "Generally, monocotyledonous seeds are endospermic but some as in orchids are non-endospermic." Thus, its key feature is S. Endosperm absent in mature seed, distinct from typical monocot storage. Therefore, the correct match is A-3-Q, B-1-P, C-2-R, D-4-S. Therefore, option D is the correct answer.