Mycocarps

Mycocarps are a type of fruit that develops from the ovary of a flower, but the ovary wall does not separate from the fruit after fertilization. Instead, the ovary wall remains fused with the fruit, forming a single, undivided structure. This characteristic distinguishes mycocarps from other types of fruits, such as berries, which have a separate ovary wall and fruit flesh.

Mycocarps are typically small and have a thin, papery or leathery exocarp. The endocarp, which is the inner layer of the fruit, is often fleshy and edible. The seeds within mycocarps are usually small and numerous, often arranged in a single layer within the fruit.

Examples of plants that produce mycocarps include members of the family Myrtaceae, such as eucalyptus trees and some species of acacia. Mycocarps are also found in the family Proteaceae, which includes banksias and grevilleas.

The term "mycocarp" is derived from the Greek words "mykon," meaning "nut," and "karpos," meaning "fruit." This reflects the nut-like appearance of many mycocarps.