Panchanan Maheshwari's Contribution — NEET Biology

Correct answer: B — S2, S4 and S6

Let's evaluate each statement to identify the incorrect ones: S1: True fruits indeed develop solely from the ovary. While most are results of fertilisation, the definition of a true fruit itself pertains to its origin from the ovary only. (Correct) S2: False fruits like apple and strawberry do have the thalamus as a primary edible portion. However, classifying them as 'a type of parthenocarpic fruit' is incorrect. False fruits are defined by the contribution of floral parts other than the ovary, while parthenocarpic fruits are defined by development without fertilisation. These are distinct concepts. (Incorrect) S3: Parthenocarpic fruits, such as banana, develop without fertilisation and are characteristically seedless. This statement is accurate. (Correct) S4: This statement claims that fruits developing solely from the ovary are 'always' the result of fertilisation and 'cannot' be parthenocarpic. This is false. Parthenocarpic fruits (e.g., banana) also develop solely from the ovary but without fertilisation. (Incorrect) S5: Mango and guava are classic examples of true fruits, where the edible pericarp (fruit wall) is derived from the matured ovary wall. (Correct) S6: This statement is incorrect. Fruits that develop without fertilisation are called parthenocarpic fruits. Many parthenocarpic fruits (like banana) are true fruits because they develop solely from the ovary. False fruits are defined by the contribution of accessory floral parts, not by the absence of fertilisation. (Incorrect) Therefore, statements S2, S4, and S6 are NOT correct. The final answer is B.