question_answer 13)

Define the term inflorescence. Explain the basis for the different types inflorescence in flowering plants.

Answer:

Inflorescence is the mode of arrangement of flowers in a group on a branch (peduncles). Depending upon whether the apex get converted into a flower or continues to grow, the two major types of inflorescences are-racemose and cymose. Racemose inflorescence In this type of inflorescences, the main axis continues to grow, the flowers are borne laterally in an acropetal succession. Racemose inflorescences are of various types such as raceme, corymb, umbel, spike, spikelet, strobile, catkin, spadix and capitulum inflorescence. Cymose inflorescence It is also called definite or determinate inflorescence because the growing point of the peduncle is used up in the formation of a flower. Cymose inflorescences are mainly of three types, i.e., uniparous or monochasial cyme, biparous or dichasial cyme and multiparous or polychasial cyme.