What symmetry do ray florets in the Asteraceae exhibit?

Ray florets in the Asteraceae family exhibit bilateral symmetry. This means that they can be divided into two mirror-image halves along a single plane. In ray florets, which are often found on the outer edge of a composite flower head (like those seen in sunflowers and daisies), the individual flowers have a distinct shape that contributes to effective pollination strategies. The structure of these florets is such that they facilitate access for pollinators, making them advantageous for reproduction.

In contrast, the inner disk florets typically display radial symmetry, but it is the outer ray florets that are primarily characterized by their bilateral symmetry. This characteristic can often be observed in the shape and arrangement of the petals, which are often broader and more distinct at the base. Understanding this symmetry is crucial for the identification and classification of plants within the Asteraceae family.