What is the direction of micropyle in anatropous ovule?

A. Left

B. Right

C. Upward

D. Inverted

In seed-bearing plants, the ovule is the female reproductive structure that develops into a seed after fertilization. The ovule is made up of three main parts: the female gametophyte, the nucellus, and the integuments. The integuments form a protective layer around the ovule and later develop into the seed coat. The nucellus, located inside the ovule, functions as the megasporangium and supplies nutrients to the female gametophyte. A tiny opening in the integuments, called the micropyle, allows the pollen tube carrying male gametes to enter the ovule and fertilize the female gamete, forming the embryo.

The orientation of ovules differs among plant groups and can be anatropous, amphitropous, or orthotropous. The anatropous ovule is the most common type, found in flowering plants and gymnosperms. In this orientation, the ovule is completely inverted (about 180°). The chalazal end lies at the top, while the micropyle is positioned very close to the hilum. The funicle also runs parallel to the ovule near the micropyle.

• Option A: Micropyle towards the left – Incorrect
• Option B: Micropyle towards the right – Incorrect
• Option C: Micropyle upward – Incorrect
• Option D: Micropyle inverted – Correct

Hence, the correct answer is Option D.