Thick and fleshy pericarp is differentiated into -
Epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp
— Concept: This question tests your understanding of fruit morphology, specifically the layers of the pericarp in a…Concept: This question tests your understanding of fruit morphology, specifically the layers of the pericarp in a fleshy fruit.
Why (B) is correct: In many fleshy fruits, the pericarp (fruit wall) is clearly differentiated into three distinct layers: the outermost epicarp (skin), the middle fleshy mesocarp, and the innermost endocarp, which can be hard and stony (e.g., mango, coconut) or membranous.
Why other options are wrong:
- (A) Epicarp and endocarp: This omits the crucial mesocarp layer, which is characteristic of thick, fleshy pericarps.
- (C) Epicarp and mesocarp: This omits the endocarp layer.
- (D) Mesocarp and endocarp: This omits the epicarp layer.
NEET Tip: Remember the acronym 'EME' for the three layers of a fleshy pericarp: Epicarp, Mesocarp, Endocarp.
Correct Answer: (B)
Epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp