Question

Inflorescence in Musa aphrodisiac (banana) is a
A. Raceme
B. Catkin
C. Spadix
D. Verticillaster

Answer 1

In a flowering plant, inflorescence is a cluster of flowers present on a branch. On the basis of arrangement of flowers on the branch inflorescence are divided into various types.

Complete step-by-step answer:
The arrangement of flowers or group or cluster of flowers on the stem and main axis and its differentiation and branching is called inflorescence. The two main types of inflorescence are-
Racemose and Cymose.

Racemose inflorescence – In this type of inflorescence there is a growth of the main axis and it does not terminate in a flower and gives off flowers laterally. The old flowers are arranged on the lower side and the young flowers are present on the upper side. It can be further divided into- Raceme inflorescence, spike inflorescence, catkin inflorescence, spadix inflorescence, corymb, umbel and Capitulum inflorescence.

Cymose inflorescence- In Cymose type of inflorescence, the peduncle terminates in a flower. It is in contrast to Racemose inflorescence. In Racemose inflorescence, the upper portion of stem is occupied by the old flowers and the young buds or newly developing flowers are found at the base. This is also referred to as basipetal succession. The different types of Cymose inflorescence are – Uniparous inflorescence, biparous inflorescence and multiparous inflorescence.

Inflorescence in Musa aphrodisiac (banana) is Spadix.

Spadix inflorescence is a type of Racemose inflorescence. In spadix inflorescence, there is modification of cartkin spike in which the peduncle is thick and fleshy with upper part being sterile and lower part possessing male neuter and female unisexual flower surrounded by a large bract called as spathe.

Therefore, from the above explanation the correct option is (C) Spadix.

Note: Spadix inflorescence is a characteristic feature of Araceae family and they consists of thick, fleshy and bear clusters of unisexual, sessile flowers. The spadix originates from a vase- shaped or funnel like modified leaf. The leaf is often found brightly coloured.