Question

In ____(i)____ type inflorescence, the main axis terminates in a flower, hence is limited in growth and flowers are borne in ___(ii)___ succession?
a. (i)- racemose, (ii)- acropetal
b. (i)- racemose, (ii)- basipetal
c. (i)- cymose, (ii)- acropetal
d. (i)- cymose, (ii)- basipetal

Answer 1

Hint: The inflorescence is characterised as the arrangement upon a floral axis of a cluster of flowers. A flora is a significant part of a reproductively tailored plant.

Complete answer:
> Option A is incorrect. The flowers branch off laterally on the floral axis in racemose inflorescence. The floral axis here continues to expand, and the flowers develop in an acropetal pattern. This type of inflorescence is found in Mangifera indica (mango), Azadirachta indica (neem), Delonix regia (Gulmohar) etc.

> Option B is incorrect. The main axis develops continuously in racemose forms of inflorescence and flowers are present laterally on the floral axis and flowers are present in an acropetal manner. Therefore, in racemose inflorescence, basipetal mode is not possible.

> Option C is incorrect. The principal axis does not develop continuously in the cymose form of inflorescence. On the main axis, a flower is terminally present. Flowers are born in the order of basipetal. There is minimal development in the principal axis. Hence the acropetal manner in cymose inflorescence is not probable.

> Option D is correct. The growing point often forms a flower in cymose inflorescence, i.e. the principal axis is terminated. The flower arrangement is basipetal and has the oldest at the tip and the younger one away from it. In Solanaceae family, this type of inflorescence is found.

Hence, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: Inflorescences are complex and have many roles. They present the flowers at anthesis in ways that allow pollen to be transferred and the reproductive success of the plant to be optimised. They provide nutrients to the growing flowers and fruits during the production of flora and fruit.