What type of fruit has a papery tissue surrounding its seed?

Prepare for the Pennsylvania Envirothon Forestry Test. Access flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations. Enhance your forestry knowledge and get equipped for success!

A samara is a type of fruit characterized by its unique structure, which includes a papery or wing-like extension that surrounds the seed. This winged formation aids in wind dispersal, allowing the seed to travel further from the parent plant to grow in a new location. The samaras are typically produced by trees such as maples and ashes, where the structure enhances their reproductive success by promoting broader dispersal in the environment.

In contrast, the other fruit types mentioned do not share this characteristic. Achenes are small, one-seeded fruits with a hard outer wall, such as those found in sunflowers. Berries are fleshy fruits that do not have a papery covering; instead, they are usually soft and juicy, like grapes or tomatoes. Drupes, or stone fruits, have a fleshy exterior with a hardened pit inside, as seen in peaches and cherries. Understanding these distinctions is key when studying fruit types in botany.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy