Question

Petals are connate when they are-
A. Polypetalous
B. Fused completely
C. Fused up to half
D. Fused only at the base

Answer 1

Hint: The term connate is related to many parts that are united to form a single part. Connotation in plants is denoted the developmental fusion of organs of the same type. As an example, petals connate to one another to form a tubular corolla.

Complete answer:
Connotation is the fusion of similar organs together. In contrast, the fusion of dissimilar organs together is known as adnation. It is most commonly found in flowers of angiosperms since most floral organs are often fused. Fused petals, fused stamens, fused sepals, fused carpels, and fused anthers are characteristic features that help in the differentiation of plants. Connate structures are formed when the same kind of organs are united with each other.
Petals are also known as the units of the corolla. They are fused with each other in sympetalous flowers. Petals can be fused to various degrees with each other. When the fusion of petals takes place in the base, this condition is known as connate and it forms a tubular structure. In morning glory Ipomoea, petals are connate.
When the petals of a flower remain completely free that are not connected to each other, this condition of connotation is called polypetalous. The corolla consists of many separate or distinct petals.
If the petals fused completely, the condition is called gamopetalous i.e. the gamopetalous condition denotes a corolla that is composed of wholly fused petals. It forms a tube or funnel-like shape of the corolla. It is not usually that fused up to half. Generally, petals are not fused up to half. Petals are either fused completely or fused at their base.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Note:
In a flower, petals are fused in various forms. Sometimes it fused only at the base, while sometimes petals fused completely. It is also seen in corolla that the petals are completely free which is known as polypetalous. When the petals fused completely, the condition is called gamopetalous, and when the fusion takes place only at the base the petals are connate.