Question

The number of ovules present in the ovary of Asteraceae is
(a) 1
(b) 2
(c) 4
(d) Many

Answer 1

Hint: The pistil of the Asteraceae family is composed of two carpels, which are united to form a compound ovary with a terminal style.

Complete answer:
The Asteraceae is one of the largest families with one ovary which is inferior. Therefore it is unilocular with basal placentation. The flowers grouped characteristically into compact inflorescences. The flower petals of Asteraceae are joined together by their margins, forming a tubular-shaped corolla that often has apical teeth representing the petal tips. The calyx is modified into pappus or may be absent or scale-like. Flower may be unisexual or bisexual and pentamerous. The other floral parts are attached to the top of the ovary. The sepals of Asteraceae are highly modified. The gynoecium is bicarpellary and syncarpous. There is usually a nectar-producing region called nectary in the form of a minute ring surrounding the style at the top of the ovary. The ovary has only one locule or seed cavity, with a single ovule arising from the base. The fact that the ovule is basal is the best single distinguishing feature of Asteraceae. The pistil consists of two connate carpels and the style has two lobes in it.
So, the correct answer is 1.

Note: All Asteraceae bear their flowers in dense heads known as the capitulum, and each capitulum may appear as a single flower. So, their inflorescence is capitulum or head surrounded by an involucre of bracts with ray and disc florets. Most of the members of this family are annual or perennial herbs and the study of this family is known as synantherology.