The coconut water and the edible part of coconut are equivalent to ____.

• (a) Endosperm
• (b) Endocarp
• (c) Mesocarp
• (d) Embryo.

The coconut water and the edible part of the coconut are equivalent to the endosperm. This is the tissue that provides nourishment to the developing plant embryo and is commonly found in seeds. In the case of coconuts, the endosperm is the liquid (coconut water) and the white flesh that we eat.

Understanding Coconut Structure

Coconuts have different layers, each serving a specific purpose:

• Endosperm: The edible part and the water.
• Endocarp: The hard outer shell.
• Mesocarp: The fibrous husk.
• Embryo: The part that can grow into a new coconut plant.

In summary, the correct answer is (a) Endosperm, as it encompasses both the coconut water and the edible flesh.