Question

Syconus fruit develops from
A. Catkin
B. Verticillaster
C. Hypanthodium
D. Cyathium

Answer 1

Hint: Syconus fruit is a composite fruit that is developed from hypanthium inflorescence. Whereas catkin inflorescence is used to develop Sorosis. Verticillaster or cyathium inflorescence are never used for the formation of composite fruits.

Complete answer:
> Option A- Catkin
A catkin is also known as ament. It is a slim, cylindrical flower cluster (a spike). It has inconspicuous or no petals. Ir is usually wind-pollinated (anemophilous) but sometimes insect-pollinated (as in Salix). They contain many unisexual flowers, arranged closely along a central stem that is often drooping.

> Option B- Verticillaster
It is also known as mixed inflorescence (as in many labiates). It consists of a pair of much-condensed and sessile cymes. They are arranged around an axis like a true vertical.

> Option C- Hypanthodium
Hypanthium is also known as the floral cup. It is a structure where basal portions of the calyx, the corolla, and the stamens form a cup-shaped tube. It is also called a floral tube. It also contains the nectaries of the plant.

> Option D- Cyathium
It is the characteristic inflorescence of the spurge, which resembles a single flower. It comprises a cup-shaped involucre of fused bracts that encloses several greatly reduced male flowers and a single female flower.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: Syconus is a type of composite fruit that is formed from a hollow fleshy inflorescence stalk inside which tiny flowers develop. Small drupes, called the `pips', are produced by the female flowers.