Identify the types of fruits A, B, and C, and explain the adaptations of each for dispersal.

a)

• A: Tridax fruit (or Dandelion fruit)
• B: Tomato fruit (or Guava fruit, or any fleshy fruit with small seeds)
• C: Coconut fruit

b)

• I: Fibrous husk (mesocarp) - Provides buoyancy for water dispersal and protects the inner parts.
• II: Hard shell (endocarp) - Provides strong protection for the seed (embryo and endosperm) inside.
• IV: Seed (endosperm/embryo) - Contains the food reserves (coconut meat and water) for the developing embryo and the embryo itself, which will grow into a new plant.

c)

• A (Tridax fruit - Wind dispersal):
  • It is lightweight to be easily carried by wind.
  • It has a pappus (feathery hairs) that acts like a parachute, increasing its surface area and allowing it to float in the air.
• B (Tomato fruit - Animal dispersal):
  • It has a fleshy and succulent pericarp that is edible and attracts animals.
  • It is often brightly colored to attract animals visually.
• C (Coconut fruit - Water dispersal):
  • It has a fibrous husk (mesocarp) with air spaces, making it buoyant to float on water.
  • It has a waterproof outer layer (exocarp) to prevent water from entering and damaging the seed during long periods of floating.