When the red pod of ripe *Blighia sapida* splits open naturally, what edible component surrounds the three shiny black seeds?
Answer
Spongy, creamy yellow flesh (the aril)
The botanical description of the mature ackee fruit, *Blighia sapida*, details a specific visual confirmation of ripeness. The outer red pod must split open naturally to expose the interior. Inside this opened pod are three distinctive, shiny black seeds. These seeds themselves are generally poisonous and must be discarded. The edible portion that surrounds these seeds is described precisely as the spongy, creamy yellow flesh, known botanically as the aril. This specific color and texture are the reliable indicators that the fruit is safe for consumption, contrasting sharply with the unknown state of an unopened pod.
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