Concept: This question tests your understanding of seed structure and the location of food reserves in non-endospermic (exalbuminous) seeds, specifically in groundnut.

Why (D) is correct: Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) is a dicotyledonous plant. Its seeds are non-endospermic or exalbuminous, meaning the endosperm is completely consumed during embryo development. In such seeds, the food reserves (proteins, oils, carbohydrates) are stored primarily in the large, fleshy cotyledons, which nourish the developing embryo during germination.

Why other options are wrong:

• (A) epicarp: The epicarp is the outermost layer of the fruit wall (pericarp), not a part of the seed where food is stored.
• (B) mesocarp: The mesocarp is the middle layer of the fruit wall, also not a part of the seed's food reserve.
• (C) endosperm: Endosperm is the primary food storage tissue in endospermic (albuminous) seeds (e.g., castor, maize). Groundnut is non-endospermic.

Common Mistake: Students often confuse endospermic and non-endospermic seeds and the primary site of food storage in each type.

NEET Tip: Remember that dicots can be both endospermic (e.g., castor) or non-endospermic (e.g., pea, bean, groundnut). Monocots are typically endospermic (e.g., maize, wheat, rice).

Correct Answer: (D)