Question

Select the correct statement(s) regarding the structure of a mature embryo sac. (i) Egg apparatus is situated towards chalazal end. (ii) Antipodal cells are situated towards micropylar end. (iii) A typical angiospermic embryo sac is $7$-celled, $8$-nudeate at maturity.

• A. (i) only
• B. (ii) only
• C. (iii) only
• D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

(iii) only

Answer 2

In angiosperms, the female gametophyte (or embryo sac) is an oval multicellular haploid structure which is embedded in the nucellus towards micropylar half of the ovule. A typical and most common type of embryo sac, found in $80\%$ flowering plants is called Polygonum type of embryo sac. It contains $8$ nuclei but $7$ cells - $3$ micropylar, $3$ chalazal and one central. It is formed by one meiosis and three mitosis. The three micropylar cells are collectively known as egg apparatus. The three chalazal cells of the embryo sac are called antipodal cells.