Drupes are also called as stone fruits becausea)The seeds are stone li...
Drupes, also known as stone fruits, are characterized by having a hard and stony endocarp. The endocarp is the innermost layer of the fruit wall and is often hard and stony in drupes, enclosing the seed(s) within. Examples of drupes include fruits like peach, plum, cherry, and mango, where the endocarp is hard and stony, giving them the name "stone fruits".
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Drupes are also called as stone fruits becausea)The seeds are stone li...
Understanding Drupes as Stone Fruits
Drupes, commonly known as stone fruits, are a specific category of fruits characterized by their unique structure. The term "stone fruit" refers to the hard, stony endocarp that encases the seed. Let’s explore why option B is the correct choice.
Structure of Drupes
- The fruit is divided into three layers: exocarp, mesocarp, and endocarp.
- The endocarp is the innermost layer that directly surrounds the seed, and in drupes, it is typically hard and stony.
Key Characteristics of Drupes
- The endocarp's hardness protects the seed, allowing it to survive harsh environmental conditions and facilitating dispersal.
- Common examples of drupes include peaches, cherries, and plums, where the hard stone is easily noticeable.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
- a) The seeds are stone-like: This is misleading as the term "stone" refers to the endocarp, not the seeds themselves.
- c) Pericarp is undifferentiated and sclerified: This statement is inaccurate; drupes have a clearly differentiated pericarp consisting of exocarp, mesocarp, and endocarp.
- d) The mesocarp is edible in most fruits: While true for many drupes, it does not define why they are called stone fruits.
Conclusion
In summary, drupes are called stone fruits primarily because of their hard and stony endocarp, which is a defining feature that distinguishes them from other fruit types. Understanding this structural characteristic is crucial for recognizing and classifying different fruits effectively.