- A A largely protective structure that serves little functional role in nutrient allocation toward the developing embryo overall in routine practice overall in most cases
- B A mechanism for maternal resource control over offspring -- endosperm is a battleground between maternal and paternal genomes for resource allocation (imprinting conflicts)
- C Mainly a food storage tissue, with little underlying genomic conflict of any kind being involved in its actual formation under typical conditions according to standard textbooks
- D An immune defense system specifically evolved mainly to protect the developing seed from pathogen and pest attack in general practice as frequently described in most textbook accounts
Correct answer: B. A mechanism for maternal resource control over offspring -- endosperm is a battleground between maternal and paternal genomes for resource allocation (imprinting conflicts)
Explanation: Genomic imprinting in endosperm is explained by the kinship theory (Haig): maternal genome favors equal allocation; paternal genome favors more resource to that seed. Paternally imprinted FIS genes vs maternally imprinted MEA regulate endosperm growth.
Concept context
Flower structure, pollination, double fertilization, and seed/fruit development — the highest-scoring Class 12 biology chapter in NEET.
Read the full Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants notes →