University of Central Florida (UCF) BOT3015 Principles of Plant Science Practice Test 2

The type of fruit in which the flesh originates from an enlarged floral tube or receptacle surrounding the ovary is known as a pome. In a pome, the edible part is primarily derived from the hypanthium, which is the swollen floral tube. This structure plays a significant role in the overall formation of the fruit.

A classic example of a pome is the apple or pear, where the thick flesh of the fruit is not mainly composed of the ovary wall, as seen in other fruit types. Instead, the fleshy part develops from the receptacle tissue that encircles the ovary, allowing for a distinct texture and flavor profile that is characteristic of pomes.

This unique reproductive adaptation allows the plant to utilize tissues that may enhance seed dispersal and attract animals that consume the fruit, thereby aiding in the plant's reproductive success.