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Ans. Parthenocarpy is the process where fruit develops without fertilization, resulting in seedless fruits.
Q. Is parthenocarpy asexual reproduction?
Ans. No, parthenocarpy is not asexual reproduction. It involves the development of fruit without fertilization, but the process still relies on the plant’s reproductive mechanisms, particularly hormonal stimulation.
Q. What is parthenocarpy in bananas?
Ans. In bananas, parthenocarpy results in the formation of seedless fruits. This phenomenon is common in cultivated bananas, where fertilization does not occur, and the fruit develops without seeds.
Q. What is parthenocarpy and parthenogenesis?
Ans. Parthenocarpy refers to seedless fruit formation without fertilization, while parthenogenesis is a type of asexual reproduction where offspring are produced without fertilization, typically observed in animals and certain plants.
Parthenocarpy, Definition, Types, and Significance for NEET Exam
Parthenocarpy, Learn about parthenocarpy, the process of seedless fruit formation without fertilization. Explore its types, and significance in agriculture.
Krati Saraswat5 Jun, 2025
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Parthenocarpy is a biological phenomenon in which fruits develop without fertilization , meaning they do not require pollination or the involvement of male gametes. This process results in seedless fruits, which are often preferred in agriculture due to their ease of consumption and marketability. Parthenocarpy is an important concept in plant biology, particularly for students preparing for the NEET Exam, as it contributes to understanding plant reproduction and its applications in agriculture.
Definition of Parthenocarpy
Parthenocarpy refers to the formation of fruit without the fertilization of an ovule. Typically, fertilization is required to initiate fruit development, but in parthenocarpic plants, fruits can form without this process. The development of the fruit is triggered by hormonal changes, particularly the production of auxins, which stimulate the growth of the ovary into a fruit, even in the absence of seeds.
Types of Parthenocarpy
Parthenocarpy can be broadly classified into two main types: Vegetative Parthenocarpy and Stimulative Parthenocarpy. These types differ in their mechanisms of fruit development and the role of external factors such as pollination or plant growth regulators.
Vegetative Parthenocarpy
Vegetative parthenocarpy occurs entirely in the absence of pollination. Since pollination does not take place, the ovules remain unfertilized, and no seeds are produced within the fruit. This type of parthenocarpy is often natural and is observed in some plant species where seedless fruits are formed as a standard reproductive strategy. An example is certain varieties of bananas.
Stimulative Parthenocarpy
Stimulative parthenocarpy, on the other hand, involves the stimulation of the ovary without actual fertilization. This process may be triggered by specific external factors. For instance:
Interaction with Wasps: In some plants, the insertion of a wasp's ovipositor into the ovary of a flower can stimulate fruit development without fertilization.
Airflow and Plant Growth Regulators: Artificial stimulation can also occur through the use of plant growth regulators or the influence of environmental factors like flowing air. These stimuli cause the ovaries of unisexual flowers, such as those inside a syconium (a fig's inflorescence), to grow into fruit.
Significance of Parthenocarpy
Parthenocarpy holds immense significance in both agriculture and the food industry due to the unique characteristics of seedless fruits. These fruits are highly valued for their quality, convenience, and versatility. Below are the key points explaining the significance of parthenocarpy:
Seedless fruits produced through parthenocarpy have a higher market value. Their smooth texture and ease of consumption make them preferred by consumers, boosting their commercial appeal.
Parthenocarpic crops reduce the reliance on pollination, which lowers the cost of cultivation. This is particularly useful in areas with limited pollinator populations or challenging environmental conditions.
Seedless fruits are ideal for preparing various food products such as jams, jellies, sauces, and fruit drinks. The absence of seeds enhances the texture and quality of these products.
Due to the absence of seeds, parthenocarpic fruits have a higher proportion of edible parts. This increases their utility and efficiency for both direct consumption and processing.
Plant growth regulators used to induce parthenocarpy stimulate the production of large-sized fruits. These fruits are visually appealing and of better quality, making them more desirable in the market.
Difference Between Parthenocopy and Parthenogenesis
Parthenocarpy and parthenogenesis are natural processes that involve development without fertilization. While parthenocarpy occurs in plants to produce seedless fruits, parthenogenesis results in offspring in both plants and animals.
Difference Between Parthenocopy and Parthenogenesis
Aspect
Parthenocarpy
Parthenogenesis
Definition
Development of fruits without fertilization.
Asexual reproduction where offspring develop from an unfertilized egg.
Occurrence
Found exclusively in plants (flowering plants).
Found in both plants and animals (e.g., bees, reptiles).
Outcome
Produces seedless fruits.
Produces offspring genetically identical to the parent.
Role of Fertilization
Fertilization is not required; pollination may occur in some cases.
Fertilization is not involved.
Examples
Seedless bananas, seedless grapes, cucumbers.
Honeybees, Komodo dragons, dandelions.
MCQs of Parthenocarpy
Q1. The phenomenon wherein, the ovary develops into a fruit without fertilisation is called;
Parthenocarpy
Apomixis
Asexual reproduction
Sexual reproduction
Q2. How can parthenocarpy be induced in plants?
Exposing plants to extreme temperatures.
Applying growth hormones.
Increasing sunlight exposure.
Pruning the branches.
Q3. Assertion: Some fruits are seedless or contain nonviable seeds.
Reason: They are produced without fertilisation.
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
Assertion (A) is true but Reason (R) is false.
Assertion (A) is false but Reason (R) is true.
Answers of MCQs of Parthenocarpy
Ans1. Parthenocarpy, Ans2. Applying growth hormones, Ans3. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A). Physics Wallah (PW) offers the NEET Online Coachingin India, designed to make quality education accessible to all aspiring medical students. With a focus on breaking down financial barriers, PW is dedicated to empowering students nationwide to excel in the NEET exam and achieve their dreams of a medical career.
