Identify the type of flowers based on the position of calyx, corolla and androecium with respect to the ovary from the given figures (a) and (b)

Correct Answer: (a) Perigynous; (b) Perigynous

Based on the position of the calyx, corolla, and androecium with respect to the ovary on the thalamus, flowers are classified into three main types:

1. Hypogynous: In these flowers, the gynoecium occupies the highest position on the thalamus while the other parts (calyx, corolla, and androecium) are situated below it. The ovary in such flowers is described as superior (e.g., mustard, china rose, brinjal).

2. Perigynous: In these flowers, the gynoecium is situated in the center and other parts of the flower are located on the rim of a cup-shaped or saucer-shaped thalamus, almost at the same level as the ovary. The ovary in perigynous flowers is described as half-inferior (e.g., plum, rose, peach).

3. Epigynous: In these flowers, the margin of the thalamus grows upward, completely enclosing the ovary and fusing with its wall. The other floral parts arise above the level of the ovary. The ovary is therefore described as inferior (e.g., guava, cucumber, ray florets of sunflower).

Analysis of the Given Figures:
- In Figure (a), the thalamus forms a cup-like shape around the ovary, and the sepals, petals, and stamens arise from the rim of this cup, roughly at the same horizontal level as the middle of the ovary. This represents a perigynous condition.
- In Figure (b), similar to figure (a), the gynoecium is situated in the center, and the other floral organs are attached to the edge of the thalamus at the same level as the ovary. This also represents a perigynous condition.

Therefore, both figures (a) and (b) depict perigynous flowers with a half-inferior ovary.