Question

Endosperm of gymnosperms is
A. Haploid
B. Tetraploid
C. Diploid
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint: Use the concept of endosperm that is defined as the tissue that provides nourishment to the growing embryo in the flowering plants. It is formed due to double fertilization in the flowering plants.

Complete answer:
After fertilization occurs in flowering plants, an endosperm is produced inside the seeds. It is formed due to double fertilization of the female gametophyte (that is ovule) by the male gametophyte (that is pollens) in the flowering plants. While one of the polar nuclei fertilises the ovule the other is fused in the embryo sac. This second polar nuclei forms the endosperm, whereas the first nuclei which fused with the egg nuclei forms the zygote or embryo. Endosperm provides the nutrition for the growing embryo. Gymnosperms produce seeds which a naked or exposed and not encased unlike the seeds in Angiosperms. Endosperm in gymnosperms is formed pre-fertilization. Thus it has only one set of chromosomes, since it does not fuse with the female gametophyte.

Thus, the correct answer is (A), The endosperm of the gymnosperms is haploid.

Additional information: 

Gymnosperms have four main divisions. One of the examples of gymnosperms which is noticeable is Conifers such as pines and cedars, are the most numerous of the Gymnosperms. Endosperms contain starch, oils and proteins. Endosperm can be seen in a coconut where white edible portion is the Endosperm.

Note: Gymnosperms are flowerless plants which produce seeds not encased inside the ovary. They produce seeds and cones but not flowers and fruits. Angiosperms, on the other hand, are flowering plants and produce endosperms post- fertilization. Thus, their endosperm is Diploid.