Question

Identify the floral unit 'I' in the given floral diagram.

• A. Sepal
• B. Pepal
• C. Tepal
• D. Perianth

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

A floral diagram illustrates:

• The number of floral components
• Their spatial arrangement
• Their structural relationships

Key floral whorls – \(\text{calyx}\), \(\text{corolla}\), \(\text{androecium}\), and \(\text{gynoecium}\) – are depicted in concentric circles from outermost to innermost.

The combined perianth (outer floral envelope) comprises undifferentiated \(\text{sepals}\) and \(\text{petals}\). When these structures are morphologically similar, each unit is termed a \(\text{tepal}\) – the correct designation for the floral elements shown in the diagram.

Answer 2

A tepal is a part of a flower's perianth, which is the outermost whorl of floral structures. The perianth consists of petals and sepals, which can sometimes be indistinguishable in certain plants. When petals and sepals are similar in appearance, they are collectively called tepals.

• Structure: Tepals are typically leaf-like structures that can be petal-like or sepal-like, depending on the plant.
• Function: Like petals and sepals, tepals help protect the reproductive organs of the flower and attract pollinators with their color and scent.
• Occurrence: Tepals are found in flowers where there is no distinct differentiation between petals and sepals, such as in lilies and tulips.