In coconut fruit, the hard shell is:
(1) Endocarp
(2) Fused structure of mesocarp and endocarp
(3) Fused structure of epicarp and mesocarp
(4) Epicarp
Answer (2)
The hard shell of the coconut fruit is known as the endocarp, which is the innermost layer that protects the seed. This layer is critical for ensuring the seed's viability against pests and environmental factors. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option (1) Endocarp.
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In coconut fruit, the hard shell is referred to as the endocarp.
To understand this, let's break down the layers of the coconut. The coconut fruit has three layers:
Epicarp : This is the outermost layer of the coconut, which is the thin, smooth green or brownish layer you often see encasing the coconut.
Mesocarp : This is the fibrous husk or the hairy middle layer that you find around the coconut. It often appears as a thick, fibrous layer and is typically removed in coconuts sold in the market.
Endocarp : This is the innermost hard shell that encases the edible part of the coconut, known as the kernel or the coconut meat, and the coconut water. This hard layer protects the seed.
Therefore, in the case of the coconut, the correct answer for the hard shell is option (1) Endocarp.
Explaining further, the endocarp is crucial for providing protection to the seed within the coconut from pests and environmental factors. This hard structure ensures the viability of the seed inside, which can eventually grow into a new coconut tree if planted under suitable conditions.
