Question:

Pollen grains are well preserved as fossils of

Show Hint

Sporopollenin is one of the most resistant biological polymers known in nature.
Updated On: Jun 20, 2026
  • Lignin
  • Pectin
  • Chitin
  • Sporopollenin
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding pollen wall structure.
The outer layer of pollen grains is called exine, which is highly resistant to degradation.

Step 2: Chemical composition of exine.

Exine is made up of sporopollenin, one of the most chemically inert and resistant biological polymers.

Step 3: Fossilization property.

Because sporopollenin is highly resistant to enzymes, heat, and chemical degradation, pollen grains are well preserved in fossil records.

Step 4: Analysis of other options.

Lignin and pectin are plant cell wall components but are not as resistant. Chitin is found in fungi and insects, not pollen walls.

Step 5: Final verification.

Only sporopollenin explains long-term fossil preservation of pollen grains.

Step 6: Final conclusion.

Hence, the correct answer is sporopollenin.
\[ \boxed{(4)} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0