Parthenocarpy

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 07:09 PM IST

Parthenocarpy is the process by which fruit develops without fertilisation. The fruits formed by this process are seedless fruits. It is a type of asexual method of reproduction seen in flowering plants. Fruits can grow without pollination and fertilisation by this asexual reproduction method.

In Biology, parthenocarpy can occur naturally and through artificial methods. It requires plant hormones like auxin and gibberelins to induce fruit formation without fertilisation. It is very useful in agriculture as it produces seedless fruits like bananas, seedless watermelons, and even some grape species. It helps in crop yield improvement, mainly in conditions where pollination is less due to environmental issues.

This Story also Contains

What Is Parthenocarpy?
Characteristics Of Parthenocarpy
Types Of Parthenocarpy
Parthenocarpic Fruits
Advantages Of Parthenocarpy
Problems and Limitations Of Parthenocarpy
MCQs on Parthenocarpy
Recommended video on Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy

What Is Parthenocarpy?

Parthenocarpy is the growth of fruit without the fertilisation of ovules. Hence, parthenocarpous fruits grow without seeds. This is very important in agriculture and horticulture since it means desirable fruits can be grown on plants without the need for pollination, and extra energy intake for seed development is avoided. Investigations of parthenocarpy have given insight into reproduction in plants and also into ways through which crop yields can be enhanced.

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Characteristics Of Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy is a unique method of fruit formation that is controlled by plant hormones and does not involve sexual reproduction. The main characteristics of parthenocarpy are given below:

Fruit Development: Parthenocarpy provides for fruit formation without the process of pollination or fertilisation.
Seedless Fruits: Since parthenocarpic fruits develop in the absence of the stimulus of fertilisation, they are seedless.
Gene Uniformity: Parthenocarpic plants give rise to offspring that are genetically identical since it does not involve sexual reproduction.
Hormonal Control: The growth of parthenocarpic fruits is normally controlled by plant hormones like auxins and gibberellins.
Agricultural Applications: Parthenocarpy has huge potential in agriculture for growing seedless fruits with certain very admirable characteristics.

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Types Of Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy can be broadly classified into two types based on stimuli that induce the development of fruit:

1. Stenospermocarpy

In stenospermocarpy, there is pollination and partial fertilisation, but it undergoes degeneration of the embryo and endosperm at an early stage, resulting in seedless fruits.
Examples include seedless grapes and bananas.

2. Autonomic Parthenocarpy

Autonomous parthenocarpy refers to the development of fruits without a stimulus from an outside source, for example, pollination or fertilisation.
This type of parthenocarpy may be artificially initiated by the application of plant growth regulators or through genetic manipulation.
Examples include parthenocarpic tomatoes and cucumbers.

Parthenocarpic Fruits

Parthenocarpic fruits are seedless fruits that develop in the absence of fertilisation in plants. These fruits become very desirable in most agricultural and horticultural contexts for reasons of convenience, taste, and texture.

Examples Of Parthenocarpic Fruits

Bananas: Several banana cultivars are parthenocarpic and give way to seedless fruits.
Grapes: Thompson Seedless and Flame Seedless are two examples of popular grapes without seeds that are parthenocarpic varieties.
Citrus Fruits: Some citrus fruits, such as mandarins and clementines, can grow to be parthenocarpic.
Pineapples are examples of parthenocarpic fruits and grow from multiple flowers merged into one.

Advantages Of Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy offers several benefits to both farmers and consumers. Since fruits develop without fertilization, they are usually seedless, uniform, and of better quality. Some of the advantages are given below:

Improved Fruit Quality: As a rule, parthenocarpic fruits are tastier, have better texture, and look better than seeded fruits.
Reduced Seed Production: The seedlessness in parthenocarpic fruits increases their consumer appeal and reduces wastage during their consumption.
Higher Yield: Parthenocarpy can result in higher fruit yields because more of the energies of the plant are used in fruit development rather than seed formation.
Genetic Uniformity: The offspring of parthenocarpic plants all have the same genetic constitution, making them good for breeding and cultivation.

Problems and Limitations Of Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy is useful for producing seedless fruits, but it also has some drawbacks. This section explains the main problems and limitations related to its use in agriculture.

Lowered Genetic Diversity: Without sexual reproduction in parthenocarpic plants, genetic diversity is drastically reduced, resulting in an increased sensitivity of plants to diseases and the environment.
Hormone Dependence: Most parthenocarpic fruits have to be induced with the spray of plant growth regulators, which is costly and may be hazardous to the environment.
Limited Availability: Parthenocarpy occurs only in a few species or cultivars; therefore, seedless fruit supply is limited in the market.

MCQs on Parthenocarpy

Question 1: Which type of parthenocarpy requires pollination stimulus without the actual process of fertilization?

Vegetative parthenocarpy
Stimulative parthenocarpy
Both (a) and (b)
None of the above

Answer: The type of parthenocarpy that requires a pollination stimulus without actual fertilization is called stimulative parthenocarpy.

Fruit that forms without fertilization and has no seeds is known as parthenocarpy.
In stimulative parthenocarpy- fruit development is triggered by pollen (or a pollination stimulus) but fertilization does not take place. Usually, fruit kinds without seeds such as bananas and grapes exhibit this kind of parthenocarpy.
The plant produces growth hormones in response to the pollination stimulation which results in the formation of fruit, but since fertilization does not occur the fruit is seedless.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2)Stimulative parthenocarpy.

Question 2: Directions: In the following questions, a statement if Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of reason (R).

Assertion: Parthenocarpic fruits are fruits that develop without fertilization and are seedless.

Reason: Parthenocarpy can be induced by Auxin spray on fruits, e.g., tomatoes.

Mark the correct choice as

If both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is a correct explanation of assertion
If both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not a correct explanation of assertion
If the assertion is true but the reason is false,
If both the assertion and the reason are false

Answer: Parthenocarpic fruits—

Fruits that develop without fertilization are called parthenocarpic fruits. Parthenocarpy can be induced through the application of growth hormones if favorable conditions are available (adequate moisture, oxygen, and suitable temperature they germinate, and such fruits are seedless. Banana is one such example.

Explanation: Parthenocarpic fruits are seedless, and spraying NAA on tomatoes can trigger parthenocarpy.

Hence, the correct option is 1) If both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion

Question 3: Which hormones are commonly used to induce parthenocarpy?

Auxins and gibberellins
Cytokinins and abscisic acid
Ethylene and brassinosteroids
None of the above

Answer: Auxins and gibberellins are the hormones most frequently utilized to cause parthenocarpy, or the formation of fruit without fertilization.

Auxins: Without fertilization, these hormones encourage the growth of fruit.
Gibberellins: They also aid in promoting the growth of fruit, particularly in seedless types.
Plants can be treated with either of these hormones to create seedless fruits, like bananas or grapes.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1) Auxins and gibberellins

Other Useful Resources:

Pollen-Pistil Interaction & Outbreeding Devices	Artificial Hybridization in Plants - Emasculation and Bagging
Self incompatibility	Post Fertilization - Events and Changes in Flowering Plants
Gametophyte	Parts Of A Seed

Recommended video on Parthenocarpy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is parthenocarpy?

Parthenocarpy refers to fruit growth without fertilisation, which in turn gives seedless fruit.

2. What is parthenocarpy?

Parthenocarpy is the development of fruit without fertilization or seed formation. In this process, the ovary of a flower develops into a fruit without pollination or fertilization occurring.

3. What are some examples of parthenocarpic fruits?

For example, some of these fruits include bananas, seedless grapes, citrus fruits, and pineapples.

4. What are the advantages of parthenocarpic fruits?

Advantages of parthenocarpic fruits include improved fruit quality, reduced seed yield, advanced yield, and the potential for genetic uniformity.

5. What are the advantages of parthenocarpic fruits?

Parthenocarpic fruits are often seedless, which is desirable for consumers. They can also develop in conditions unfavorable for pollination, ensuring fruit production. Additionally, they tend to have a longer shelf life compared to seeded fruits.

6. What are some of the problems associated with parthenocarpy?

Some of the problems associated with parthenocarpy include reduced genetic diversity, dependence on hormones, and limited availability of parthenocarpic varieties.

7. How does parthenocarpy benefit farmers and the agricultural industry?

Parthenocarpy allows for consistent fruit production even in unfavorable pollination conditions, extends the growing season, and produces seedless fruits that are often preferred by consumers, leading to higher market value.

8. How does parthenocarpy affect fruit shelf life?

Parthenocarpic fruits often have a longer shelf life compared to seeded fruits. The absence of seeds can slow down the ripening and degradation processes, allowing the fruits to remain fresh for longer periods.

9. How does parthenocarpy impact fruit flavor and texture?

Parthenocarpic fruits may have different flavors and textures compared to seeded varieties. The absence of seeds can result in a more uniform texture and sometimes a milder flavor, which can be desirable in certain fruits.

10. What is the relationship between parthenocarpy and plant ploidy?

Parthenocarpy is often associated with polyploidy (having multiple sets of chromosomes). Many cultivated parthenocarpic varieties are triploid, which contributes to their sterility and ability to produce seedless fruits.

11. How does parthenocarpy differ from normal fruit development?

In normal fruit development, pollination and fertilization occur, leading to seed formation. In parthenocarpy, fruits develop without fertilization or seed formation, resulting in seedless fruits.

12. What is the difference between parthenocarpy and apomixis?

While both processes result in seed-free reproduction, parthenocarpy leads to the development of fruit without seeds, whereas apomixis produces seeds without fertilization, essentially cloning the parent plant.

13. How does parthenocarpy affect the energy allocation in plants?

In parthenocarpic plants, energy that would typically be used for seed production is redirected to fruit development and other plant processes. This can result in increased fruit size or altered resource allocation within the plant.

14. What are the genetic mechanisms underlying parthenocarpy?

Genetic mechanisms of parthenocarpy can involve mutations in genes regulating fruit set, alterations in hormone signaling pathways, or changes in ploidy levels. These genetic factors enable fruit development without fertilization.

15. How does parthenocarpy relate to fruit ripening processes?

Parthenocarpic fruits undergo similar ripening processes to seeded fruits, including changes in color, texture, and flavor. However, the absence of seeds may alter the timing or intensity of certain ripening-related changes.

16. Can parthenocarpy occur naturally?

Yes, parthenocarpy can occur naturally in some plants like bananas, pineapples, and certain citrus fruits. However, it is also induced artificially in many commercial crops.

17. Can all plants undergo parthenocarpy?

Not all plants can undergo parthenocarpy. The ability to produce parthenocarpic fruits depends on the plant's genetic makeup and its response to certain environmental or hormonal stimuli.

18. What are some common examples of parthenocarpic fruits?

Common examples of parthenocarpic fruits include seedless bananas, pineapples, seedless watermelons, some varieties of cucumbers, and certain citrus fruits like navel oranges.

19. How does parthenocarpy affect fruit size and shape?

Parthenocarpic fruits may differ in size and shape from their seeded counterparts. They are often smaller or irregularly shaped due to the lack of seed development, which normally influences fruit growth patterns.

20. How does temperature affect parthenocarpic fruit development?

Temperature can significantly influence parthenocarpic fruit development. Extreme temperatures (both high and low) can affect hormone production and distribution in the plant, potentially enhancing or inhibiting parthenocarpic fruit set.

21. What is the difference between stimulative and non-stimulative parthenocarpy?

Stimulative parthenocarpy requires some form of stimulation (like pollination) to trigger fruit development, even though fertilization doesn't occur. Non-stimulative parthenocarpy involves fruit development without any external stimuli.

22. What is the relationship between parthenocarpy and fruit set in adverse conditions?

Parthenocarpy can enhance fruit set in adverse conditions that are unfavorable for pollination or fertilization, such as low temperatures or lack of pollinators, ensuring fruit production even in challenging environments.

23. How does parthenocarpy affect seed dispersal strategies in plants?

Parthenocarpy significantly alters seed dispersal strategies since no viable seeds are produced. This can impact the plant's natural propagation methods and its interactions with seed-dispersing animals.

24. What role do gibberellins play in parthenocarpic fruit development?

Gibberellins, like auxins, are important plant hormones in parthenocarpic fruit development. They stimulate cell division and expansion in the ovary, promoting fruit growth in the absence of fertilization.

25. How does parthenocarpy affect fruit sugar content?

Parthenocarpic fruits may have different sugar content compared to seeded fruits. The absence of seeds can sometimes result in higher sugar concentration in the fruit flesh, as resources are not diverted to seed development.

26. How does parthenocarpy affect plant reproduction?

Parthenocarpy can limit a plant's ability to reproduce sexually since it results in seedless fruits. This means that the plant relies more on vegetative propagation or human intervention for reproduction.

27. How does the nutritional value of parthenocarpic fruits compare to seeded fruits?

Generally, the nutritional value of parthenocarpic fruits is similar to their seeded counterparts. However, they may have slightly lower protein content due to the absence of seeds, which are often rich in proteins.

28. Can parthenocarpy occur in gymnosperms?

Parthenocarpy is primarily observed in angiosperms (flowering plants). Gymnosperms, which produce seeds without fruits, do not exhibit true parthenocarpy, although they may have analogous processes for seedless reproduction.

29. What role do plant hormones play in parthenocarpy?

Plant hormones, particularly auxins and gibberellins, play a crucial role in parthenocarpy. These hormones stimulate fruit development without the need for fertilization, mimicking the natural hormonal changes that occur after pollination.

30. Why are some parthenocarpic fruits considered "seedless" when they may contain undeveloped seeds?

While parthenocarpic fruits develop without fertilization, they may still contain undeveloped seed structures. These are typically small, soft, and unnoticeable, leading to the fruits being marketed as "seedless" for practical purposes.

31. What is facultative parthenocarpy?

Facultative parthenocarpy refers to the ability of some plants to produce both seeded and seedless fruits depending on environmental conditions or pollination status. This provides reproductive flexibility to the plant.

32. How is artificial parthenocarpy induced in plants?

Artificial parthenocarpy can be induced through various methods, including the application of plant growth regulators (hormones), genetic modification, or selective breeding for parthenocarpic traits.

33. What is the role of auxins in parthenocarpic fruit development?

Auxins play a crucial role in parthenocarpic fruit development by stimulating cell division and expansion in the ovary, mimicking the effects of fertilization. They are often used in artificial induction of parthenocarpy.

34. Can parthenocarpy occur in wild plant populations?

While parthenocarpy is more common in cultivated varieties, it can occur naturally in some wild plant populations. However, it is generally less frequent in the wild due to the evolutionary advantage of seed production.

35. Can parthenocarpy be induced in all parts of a plant simultaneously?

Parthenocarpy can be induced in multiple flowers or fruits on a plant simultaneously, but it typically affects only the reproductive structures (ovaries) that are treated or genetically modified for this trait.

36. Can parthenocarpy occur in flowers that have been emasculated?

Yes, parthenocarpy can occur in emasculated flowers (flowers with removed male parts). In fact, emasculation is sometimes used in experiments to study parthenocarpy by eliminating the possibility of self-pollination.

37. Can parthenocarpy be reversed or switched off in plants?

Once a fruit has begun developing parthenocarpically, the process cannot be reversed. However, in some plants with facultative parthenocarpy, the trait can be expressed or not depending on environmental conditions or genetic triggers.

38. How does parthenocarpy influence fruit maturation time?

Parthenocarpic fruits often mature faster than seeded fruits. The absence of seed development, which typically regulates fruit maturation, can lead to earlier ripening in some parthenocarpic varieties.

39. How does parthenocarpy affect plant hormone balance?

Parthenocarpy can alter the hormone balance in plants, particularly increasing levels of auxins and gibberellins in developing fruits. This hormonal change can have broader effects on plant growth and development.

40. What are the ecological implications of widespread parthenocarpic crop cultivation?

Widespread cultivation of parthenocarpic crops can impact local ecosystems by reducing seed availability for wildlife, altering plant-pollinator relationships, and potentially decreasing genetic diversity in plant populations.

41. What are the challenges in breeding parthenocarpic varieties?

Challenges in breeding parthenocarpic varieties include maintaining genetic diversity, ensuring consistent fruit quality, and developing varieties that can produce parthenocarpic fruits under various environmental conditions.

42. How does parthenocarpy influence crop yield and agricultural practices?

Parthenocarpy can increase crop yields by ensuring fruit development even when pollination is limited. It also simplifies some agricultural practices by eliminating the need for pollination management in certain crops.

43. What is the impact of parthenocarpy on fruit calcium levels?

Parthenocarpic fruits may have lower calcium levels compared to seeded fruits. This is because developing seeds are strong sinks for calcium, and their absence can affect calcium distribution within the fruit.

44. What are the potential drawbacks of parthenocarpy in agriculture?

Potential drawbacks include reduced genetic diversity, dependence on human intervention for propagation, possible alterations in fruit quality or nutritional content, and the need for specialized growing techniques or treatments.

45. What is the relationship between parthenocarpy and fruit abscission?

Parthenocarpic fruits are often less prone to premature abscission (dropping from the plant) compared to unfertilized, non-parthenocarpic ovaries. The hormonal changes in parthenocarpy help maintain fruit attachment to the plant.

46. How does parthenocarpy affect fruit water content?

Parthenocarpic fruits may have higher water content compared to seeded fruits. The absence of seeds, which typically accumulate dry matter, can result in fruits with a higher proportion of water in their composition.

47. What is the role of ethylene in parthenocarpic fruit development?

While ethylene is crucial in fruit ripening, its role in parthenocarpic fruit development is often reduced. Parthenocarpic fruits may produce less ethylene during development, which can affect their ripening characteristics.

48. How does parthenocarpy influence fruit respiration rates?

Parthenocarpic fruits often have lower respiration rates compared to seeded fruits. The absence of developing seeds, which are metabolically active, can result in reduced overall fruit respiration.

49. What are the implications of parthenocarpy for plant breeding programs?

Parthenocarpy presents both opportunities and challenges in plant breeding. It allows for the development of seedless varieties but can complicate traditional breeding methods that rely on sexual reproduction and seed production.

50. How does parthenocarpy affect fruit susceptibility to pests and diseases?

The effect of parthenocarpy on fruit susceptibility to pests and diseases can vary. In some cases, the absence of seeds may reduce susceptibility to certain seed-targeting pests, while altered fruit composition might affect overall disease resistance.

51. What is the relationship between parthenocarpy and fruit firmness?

Parthenocarpic fruits may exhibit different firmness characteristics compared to seeded fruits. The absence of seeds and associated structures can lead to changes in fruit texture and firmness, which can be either advantageous or disadvantageous depending on the crop.

52. How does parthenocarpy affect the environmental adaptability of plants?

Parthenocarpy can enhance a plant's ability to produce fruits in environments unfavorable for pollination or fertilization. However, it may reduce adaptability in terms of genetic diversity and natural reproduction in wild populations.

53. What are the economic implications of parthenocarpic crop production?

Parthenocarpic crop production can have significant economic implications, including increased market value for seedless fruits, potential for off-season production, and reduced costs associated with pollination management in some crops.

54. How does parthenocarpy relate to sustainable agriculture practices?

Parthenocarpy can contribute to sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for chemical inputs to ensure fruit set, potentially decreasing water usage in some crops, and allowing for more efficient use of resources in fruit production. However, it also raises questions about genetic diversity and long-term ecosystem impacts that need to be considered in sustainable farming practices.