Question

Production of Cucumber has increased manifold in recent years. Application of which of the following phytohormones has resulted in this increased yield as the hormone is known to produce female flowers in the plants?

• A. ABA
• B. Gibberellin
• C. Ethylene
• D. Cytokinin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The production of cucumbers has significantly increased due to the application of phytohormones that promote the formation of female flowers. Among the options provided, the correct choice is Ethylene.

Explanation: Ethylene is a well-known plant hormone that influences the sexual differentiation in certain plants. It is specifically noted for its role in favoring the development of female flowers over male flowers in some species, including cucumbers. This shift in the flower sex ratio results in more fruit production because cucumber seeds develop from female flowers.

Let's look at the roles of each hormone:

• ABA (Abscisic Acid): Generally involved in stress responses and inhibition of growth. It does not stimulate the production of female flowers.
• Gibberellin: Primarily involved in promoting growth and elongation of cells, seed germination, and other processes, but not in the promotion of female flowers.
• Ethylene: Promotes the formation of female flowers in several plant species, including cucumbers, thereby increasing fruit production.
• Cytokinin: Concerned with cell division and growth, not specifically related to flower sex expression.