Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question tests knowledge of maturity indicators in fruit crops.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In papaya, the stigma (part of the female flower/pistil) undergoes changes as the fruit matures.
Spineless stigma is a maturity indicator in papaya.
As the fruit matures:
- The stigma loses its spines (becomes spineless).
- This indicates the fruit is ready for harvest.
Other maturity indicators of papaya:
- Yellow patch development on the fruit surface.
- Change in fruit color from green to yellow/orange.
- Latex becomes watery and less milky.
- Fruit firmness decreases.
Other fruit maturity indicators:
- Apple: Ground color change, starch-iodine test.
- Sapota: Milky latex changes to watery latex.
- Pear: Ground color change, fruit firmness.
Thus, spineless stigma is specifically associated with papaya maturity.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, "spineless stigma" is related to maturity of papaya, which corresponds to option (C).
[0.5cm]