Write a short note on endosperm, embryo and seed coat found in seed of maize plant.

Solution:

Structure of Maize Grain (Caryopsis):

1. Endosperm:

• Triploid (3n) nutritive tissue
• Bulky, occupies major seed volume
• Surrounded by aleurone layer (protein-rich, single cell layer)
• Stores starch and proteins
• Provides nutrition during germination

1. Embryo:

• Located on one side of endosperm
• Monocotyledonous (single cotyledon = scutellum)
• Embryonal axis consists of:
  • Plumule: Enclosed in coleoptile (protective sheath)
  • Radicle: Enclosed in coleorhiza (protective sheath)

1. Seed Coat:

• Membranous, thin
• Fused with fruit wall (pericarp)
• Forms a caryopsis (indehiscent fruit)
• Scutellum acts as absorptive organ