Question

A scientist who wish to study the viral effect on plants should exclude

• A. Cortex
• B. Pith
• C. Shoot apex
• D. Phloem

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Shoot apex

The correct option is C:

Explanation of the correct option :

Option C:

1. The shoot apex is the growing tip of a plant which mainly consists of apical meristematic tissues.
2. Apical meristem has continuously and rapidly dividing cells.
3. Since they have a very high metabolic rate, it becomes very difficult for the virus to replicate in these cells.
4. Hence, it is free from viruses and is used in tissue culture.

Explanation of the incorrect option :

Option A:

1. Cortex tissue is a group of unspecialized cells between the vascular and epidermis of plants.
2. It is not resistant to viruses.

Option B:

1. Pith comprises spongy parenchyma cells that store starch.
2. They are also not resistant to virus.

Option D:

1. Phloem is the vascular conductive tissue in plants.
2. It is not resistant to virus.

Final answer: A scientist who wishes to study the viral effect on plants should exclude the Shoot apex.