Parthenocarpic Fruits and Seedless Development — NEET Biology

Correct answer: C — S1, S2 and S3

Let's evaluate each statement: S1: Parthenocarpic fruits are indeed those that develop from the ovary without fertilisation. This is the defining characteristic of parthenocarpy. (Correct) S2: Parthenocarpy can be induced through the application of growth hormones, leading to seedless fruits. Grapes are a common example where this technique is commercially applied. (Correct) S3: Banana is a classic example of a naturally parthenocarpic fruit, and all parthenocarpic fruits are characteristically seedless due to the absence of fertilisation. (Correct) S4: Parthenocarpy is a form of asexual reproduction (since it doesn't involve gamete fusion). Asexual reproduction typically produces genetically identical offspring (clones) and does not lead to novel genetic variations, which arise from sexual reproduction. (Incorrect) S5: Apple and strawberry are classified as false fruits because the thalamus contributes to their edible portion, not because they are parthenocarpic. Parthenocarpy refers to development without fertilisation, not the involvement of accessory floral parts. (Incorrect) Therefore, statements S1, S2, and S3 are correct. The final answer is C.