Add the missing floral organs in the given floral formula of Family Fabaceae.
— Concept: This question tests your knowledge of floral formulas, specifically the characteristic floral formula of the…
Concept: This question tests your knowledge of floral formulas, specifically the characteristic floral formula of the Family Fabaceae (subfamily Papilionoideae) and its unique corolla structure.
Why (B) is correct: The Fabaceae family (subfamily Papilionoideae) exhibits a characteristic papilionaceous corolla. This corolla consists of five petals arranged in a specific way: one large posterior petal called the standard (or vexillum), two lateral petals called wings (or alae), and two anterior petals that are fused together to form a boat-shaped structure called the keel (or carina). Therefore, the representation correctly denotes one standard petal, two wing petals, and two fused keel petals (indicated by the parenthesis).
Why other options are wrong:
- (A) : This implies two separate keel petals, which is incorrect as they are fused.
- (C) : This indicates a total of 6 petals, which is not characteristic of Fabaceae.
- (D) : This indicates five free petals, which does not represent the papilionaceous corolla with fused keel petals.
NEET Tip: Remember the structure of the papilionaceous corolla: 1 (standard) + 2 (wings) + (2) (fused keel). The parenthesis indicates fusion.
Correct Answer: (B)