Describe the stages of fruit development in the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum) after fertilisation and classify the type of fruit it produces.
Answer
Tomato produces a berry, a type of fleshy fruit.
The correct answer is Tomato produces a berry, a type of fleshy fruit. — The tomato fruit is a berry because it is fleshy, has multiple seeds and develops from a single ovary.
Step-by-step solution
- After fertilisation, the ovary wall starts to enlarge and cells undergo rapid division forming the fruit wall.
- Cell expansion and accumulation of water and sugars occur, giving the fruit its fleshy texture.
- The pericarp develops into a single, soft, edible layer enclosing the seeds.
- The fruit matures as the outer skin changes colour and becomes firm.
- During maturation, the seeds inside mature and the fruit becomes ready for dispersal.
- The tomato fruit is a berry because it is fleshy, has multiple seeds and develops from a single ovary.
Common mistake: Classifying tomato as a drupe or a berry incorrectly
Concept tested: Fruit development
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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