Concept: This question tests your knowledge of fruit types, specifically identifying examples of a drupe fruit.

Why (D) is correct: A drupe is a fleshy fruit with a thin outer skin (exocarp), a fleshy middle layer (mesocarp), and a hard, stony inner layer (endocarp) that encloses the seed. Both mango and coconut are classic examples of drupes. In mango, the fleshy part is the edible mesocarp, and the hard stone is the endocarp. In coconut, the fibrous mesocarp is not eaten, but the hard shell (endocarp) enclosing the seed is prominent.

Why other options are wrong:

• (A) mango: Mango is a drupe, but it's not the only correct option as coconut is also a drupe.
• (B) coconut: Coconut is a drupe, but it's not the only correct option as mango is also a drupe.
• (C) mustard: Mustard produces a fruit called a siliqua, which is a type of dry dehiscent fruit, not a drupe.

Common Mistake: Students often get confused by the fibrous nature of the coconut's mesocarp and don't recognize it as a drupe, thinking drupes must always have a fleshy mesocarp like a mango or peach.

NEET Tip / Mnemonic: Remember 'Don't Really Understand Peaches Except' for Drupe, and think of Mango and Coconut as prime examples. The key is the 'stony endocarp'.

Correct Answer: (D)