Define Parthenocarpy.

Parthenocarpy is a botanical term that refers to the development and maturation of fruit without fertilization or the formation of seeds. In other words, it is the process by which fruits are produced from the ovary of a flower without the need for pollination or the presence of viable male gametes (pollen).

Normally, the formation of fruit occurs after pollination, when the pollen from the male reproductive organs (stamens) fertilizes the egg in the female reproductive organ (ovary) of the flower. This fertilization triggers the development of seeds within the ovary, which eventually leads to fruit formation.

However, in parthenocarpy, fruits can develop in the absence of fertilization. This can occur naturally in certain plant species or can be induced artificially through various techniques such as hormone application, genetic modification, or other environmental factors. The resulting fruits are usually seedless or contain reduced or non-functional seeds.

Parthenocarpy is of agricultural significance because it allows for the production of seedless fruits, which are often preferred by consumers due to their desirable taste, texture, and convenience. Examples of parthenocarpic fruits include seedless varieties of bananas, grapes, and some types of citrus fruits.