Question

The given symbols of floral parts indicate the condition of

(a) Zygomorphic flower, epipetalous, epiphyllous, superior ovary
(b) Actinomorphic flower, epiphyllous, epipetalous, inferior ovary
(c) Zygomorphic flower, epiphyllous, epipetalous, superior ovary
(d) Actinomorphic flower, epipetalous, epiphyllous, inferior ovary

Answer 1

Hint: Floral formulae are used as a device to easily represent any particular species of flowers, and give the complete information about its organs and other characteristic features. This helps in identification of the flower and also helps in scientific studies.

Complete answer: A floral formula is used to represent the structure of a flower using numbers, letters and various range of symbols.

The percentage sign is used to describe the symmetry condition present in the flower. Such a type of flower is known as zygomorphic which means that the flower can be divided in only one plane to get equal halves.
When the petals of the corolla (C) remain in association with the stamens/ Androecium (A), such a condition is referred to as epipetalous. It is represented by the second symbol.
In some flowers the calyx and corolla are absent and instead another whorl is present which is known as the perianth (P).
Tepals are the units of perianth and when these tepals are associated with the stamens/ androecium (A), then such a condition is termed as epiphyllous. It is represented by the third symbol.
Lastly, the line drawn just below the Gynoecium (G) represents the condition where the flower has a superior ovary (a condition where the ovary is attached to the receptacle just above the attachment of other floral parts and appears to be at a higher level than the other parts).

So, the correct answer is ‘Zygomorphic flower, epipetalous, epiphyllous, superior ovary’.

Note: The format of floral formulae used often differs from one author to another, but ultimately, they convey the same information to maintain a universal acceptance.