Plant Ovary: Structure, Function, and Role in Fruit and Seed Development

Anatomy of the Ovary

• Location: Basal part of the pistil (female reproductive organ).
• Pericarp (ovary wall): Develops into fruit wall; protects ovules.
• Locules: Chambers containing ovules.
• Ovules: Contain embryo sac; after fertilization become seeds.
• Placenta: Tissue attaching ovules to ovary wall.

Functions

• Houses and protects ovules.
• Site of fertilization.
• After fertilization, matures into fruit (pericarp) for seed dispersal.
• Produces hormones regulating fruit development.

From Ovary to Fruit

Fertilization triggers hormonal changes → ovary enlarges, pericarp differentiates into fruit (fleshy or dry). Seeds mature within. Fruit aids dispersal (animals, wind, water).