Question

Which structure in the anther wall is the innermost, immediately enclosing the sporogenous tissue, and primarily functions in providing nutrition?

• A. Epidermis
• B. Endothecium
• C. Middle layer
• D. Tapetum

Hint:

Key Exam Tip:
Remember the layers of the anther wall from outside to inside: Epidermis, Endothecium, Middle Layer(s), and Tapetum. The Tapetum is the nutritive layer for the pollen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The anther wall is composed of four layers that protect and nourish the developing pollen. From outermost to innermost, these are:
1. Epidermis: The outermost protective layer.
2. Endothecium: Located beneath the epidermis, it has fibrous thickenings and aids in anther dehiscence.
3. Middle layer(s): Typically one to three layers between the endothecium and tapetum, offering support and potentially storing food.
4. Tapetum: The innermost layer, directly surrounding the sporogenous tissue (microspore mother cells and developing microspores). The tapetum is specialized for providing nutrition to the developing microspores, supplying them with essential substances like enzymes and storage materials. Its cells are often multinucleate and rich in cytoplasm.
Therefore, the tapetum is the innermost layer fulfilling the described functions.
Final Answer: \(\boxed{D}\)