Problem 90 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Which is the edible part in mango? (a) Thin epicarp (b) Fleshy mesocarp (c) Stony hard endocarp (d) All of these

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The edible part in a mango is (b) Fleshy mesocarp.

Step 1: Understanding the Parts of a Mango

A Mango fruit is a drupe. A drupe is a fruit that has an outer thin skin (the epicarp), a middle fleshy part (the mesocarp), and an inner hard part (the endocarp) that encloses a seed.

Step 2: Identifying the Edible Part

When you eat a mango, usually you cut into the fruit and eat the soft, juicy flesh. You avoid the outer skin and the inner hard pit. The edible part is thus the mesocarp.

Step 3: Matching the Edible Part with the Options

Looking at the options available: (a) Thin epicarp refers to the outer skin of the mango which is not typically eaten. (b) Fleshy mesocarp refers to the juicy flesh of the mango which is eaten. (c) Stony hard endocarp refers to the hard pit which is also not typically eaten. (d) All of these, implies that all the parts are eaten, which is not accurate. Thus the correct answer is (b) Fleshy mesocarp.

Key Concepts

Drupes

Understanding mangoes begins with acknowledging that they belong to a category of fruits called drupes. Drupes are fleshy fruits that enclose their seeds within a hard shell or stone. Common examples of drupes include fruits like cherries, peaches, and, of course, mangoes. Each drupe has three distinct layers:

• Epicarp: The thin outer layer.
• Mesocarp: The thick, fleshy middle part.
• Endocarp: The hard, inner shell that surrounds the seed.

These layers work harmoniously, protecting the seed and assisting in its dispersal in nature. Drupes often rely on animals or humans to consume the fleshy mesocarp, aiding in seed distribution.

Mesocarp

The mesocarp is the middle layer of the fruit and is notably juicy and fleshy, making it the part we usually consume. In mangoes, this part is filled with sugars and has a vibrant, sweet flavor that people all around the world enjoy. Not only is it appealing due to its taste, but the mesocarp also contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for health, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Furthermore, the mesocarp's consistency can vary between drupes. For example, a peach has a similarly fleshy mesocarp as a mango, whereas the mesocarp of an almond is less juicy and fleshy.

Epicarp

The epicarp is the outermost layer of a mango and serves as the protective skin. While it is important for safeguarding the fruit from insects, diseases, and physical damage in nature, it is not typically consumed by humans. The thickness and texture of the epicarp can vary greatly between different types of drupes. In mangoes, the epicarp is quite thin and can have a smooth or slightly bumpy texture, with coloration that often ranges from green to yellow or red as the fruit ripens. Even though it's generally not eaten due to its tough and bitter qualities, the epicarp can sometimes contain beneficial compounds such as pigments and antioxidants.

Endocarp

The endocarp of a mango refers to the innermost layer surrounding the seed, which is usually a hard, stony shell. This layer is vital in protecting the seed until it can be dispersed to grow a new plant. Although not edible, the endocarp plays a crucial role in the life cycle of the fruit by ensuring the seed remains intact during digestion if swallowed by animals. In mangoes, the endocarp is notoriously hard, and when you eat a mango, this part is what you often refer to as "the pit." Other drupes, like peaches and cherries, also possess a hard endocarp, which houses the seed or kernel inside.