Like most fruit, the banana has developed to ripen and allow for the best seed dispersal, and that includes changes to its inedible skin.
Asked by: Kirsty Nesbitt, Waterlooville
The skin of an unripe banana is full of water. Although the skin is quite watertight on the outside, water is gradually lost from the skin by osmosis to the fruit inside as the banana ripens. This causes the skin cells to wilt and collapse, making the overall skin thinner and more pliable. This is probably an adaptation to make the fruit easier to eat when it is ripe, thereby encouraging seed dispersion.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine and try 3 issues for just $9.95
Discover our latest special editions covering a range of fascinating topics from the latest scientific discoveries to the big ideas explained.
Listen to some of the brightest names in science and technology talk about the ideas and breakthroughs shaping our world.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.