Coconut
While the name might be misleading, there are several key reasons why botanists classify coconut as a fruit: Structure Drupe: A coconut is a type of fruit called a drupe, characterized by a fleshy outer layer (exocarp), a fibrous middle layer (mesocarp), and a hard inner layer (endocarp) enclosing the seed. This structure is similar to other fruits like peaches, cherries, and olives. Seed development: Like other fruits, coconut develops from a flower and contains an embryo (seed) that develops within the fleshy part. Expert opinions Botanists: Leading botanical institutions like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the Missouri Botanical Garden classify coconut as a drupe and therefore a fruit. Nutritionists: Health organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the USDA also categorize coconut as a fruit. Research findings Genetic studies: Genetic analysis of coconut reveals closer relationships to other fruits than to true nuts. Evolutionary history: The evolution...