Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): A rare form of ovule orientation in ovary, wherein the micropyle lies in straight line with the chalaza and funicle is known as Orthotropous ovary.
Statement (II): Orthotropus ovary is found in Piper nigrum.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct

Hint:

The prefix "ortho-" is derived from the Greek word for "straight" (as in orthodontics or orthogonal).
This indicates that in an orthotropous ovule, the micropyle, chalaza, and funicle are perfectly aligned in a straight line.
Piper nigrum (black pepper) is the most common textbook example of this ovule type.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Angiosperms exhibit several distinct patterns of ovule orientation within the ovary.
These orientations are classified based on the relative spatial positions of three key structures: the micropyle (opening), the chalaza (base of the ovule), and the funicle (stalk).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
An orthotropous (also known as atropous) ovule is characterized by a straight, erect body.
In this arrangement, the micropyle, the chalaza, and the funicle all lie in a direct, unbroken straight line.
The micropyle is positioned at the apex, pointing directly away from the funicle.
This straight, upright orientation is considered the most primitive evolutionary form of ovule structure in seed plants.
Most modern angiosperms possess inverted (anatropous) or curved (campylotropous) ovules.
Because of this, the orthotropous ovule orientation is relatively rare among flowering plants.
Thus, Statement (I) is correct.
Orthotropous ovules are restricted to a few primitive or specialized plant families.
These families include Polygonaceae (e.g., Rumex, Polygonum), Urticaceae, and Piperaceae.
The black pepper plant, Piper nigrum, belongs to the Piperaceae family and possesses a single, basal, orthotropous ovule inside its ovary.
Thus, Statement (II) is also correct.
Since both statements are scientifically accurate, the correct option is (A).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct as Piper nigrum is a classic botanical example of a plant with a straight, orthotropous ovule.