Question

Pappus is present in Compositae for
A. Air pollution
B. Insect pollination
C. Water pollution
D. Air dispersal

Answer 1

Hint: Pappus is defined as the modified calyx which is the part of the floret which surrounds the base of the corolla tube located at the head of the flower containing plants.

Complete Answer:
Pappus is found in the plants belonging to the family of Asteraceae or Compositae. The pappus may be formed of bristles or scales.

Let us analyze the options to find out the role of pappus.
Option A: Air pollination is a process by which pollen is distributed through the wind. Many gymnosperms have this phenomena for the pollination of pollen grains.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option B: Insect pollination is a form where insects help in the distribution of pollen grain from the plants or flowers of the plants for pollination. They carry the pollen from one flower to another.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option C: Water pollination occurs in aquatic plants wherein the pollen grain floats in the water surface until it comes in contact with another flower for fertilization with female gametophyte.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option D: Air dispersal occurs in the pappus of the compositae as the modified calyx which is the papus itself opens up in the shape of the umbrella allowing the seeds to disperse in the air. This wind-aided dispersal of their seeds is the major role of the pappus. Therefore, this is the correct option.

Thus, the correct option is D) Air dispersal.

Note: The pappus found in dandelion plays an important role in the wind-aided dispersal of its seeds. The pappus in dandelion is studied and reproduced for a variety of applications.