Question

Identify the floral formula of the following characters.
Ebracteolate, United perianth, pentacarpellary syncarpous, zygomorphic, superior ovary, bisexual.

• A. Ebrl, K₍₅₎ A_̅(5) ⊕, ♀
• B. Ebrl, (P), G₍₅₎ %, ♂♀
• C. Ebrl, C₍₅₎, G₍₅₎ %, ♂♀
• D. Ebr, (K), G₍₃₎ ⊕, ♂

Hint:

Use floral formula symbols: $\oplus$ for actinomorphic, $%$ for zygomorphic, underline for inferior ovary, and $\male\female$ for bisexual.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The floral formula encodes floral characteristics using symbolic notation. Let's interpret each clue in the question:

• Ebracteolate (Ebrl): Indicates absence of bracts.
• United perianth (P): Instead of separate calyx and corolla, the perianth is undifferentiated and fused.
• Pentacarpellary syncarpous: Five fused carpels — written as G₍₅₎.
• Zygomorphic: Bilateral symmetry — represented by the symbol %.
• Superior ovary: Ovary is above the other floral parts — no underline under G.
• Bisexual: Flower has both male and female reproductive parts — denoted by ♂♀ (♂♀).

Among the options, only option (2) accurately includes all these features:

• Ebrl (no bract)
• (P) for united perianth
• G₍₅₎ for five fused carpels
• % for zygomorphy
• ♂♀ for bisexual flower