Question

What is Endosperm ? Give an account of structure and its type.

Answer 1

Meaning of Endosperm:

The endosperm makes the main source of food for the embryo. In gymnosperms, the endosperm is haploid (n) and forms a continuation of the female gametophyte. On the other hand, in angiosperms it is formed mostly as the result of a fusion of the two polar nuclei and one of the male gametes. Since all the three nuclei taking part in the fusion are haploid, the endosperm becomes triploid (3n).

Answer 2

• The endosperms are very vital parts of the fertilized embryo.
• An endosperm forms the surrounding tissue of the growing embryo.
• They are the primary storage tissue and their main function is to provide starch and other nutrients to the growing embryo.
• It surrounds the embryo and provides nutrition in the form of starch, though it can also contain oils and protein.
• Three main types of endosperm development in flowering plants are: (i) Nuclear type  (ii) Cellular type  (iii) Helobial type

Hope it is informative!