Question

Bamboo and grass stems elongate by the activity of_________.

• A. Intercalary meristem
• B. Apical meristem
• C. Lateral meristem
• D. Secondary meristem

Answer 1

The correct option is A Intercalary meristem

• The intercalary meristems are present at the base of the internodes of stem or leaf.
  
• These are derived from the residual apical meristem, traces of which were left at the nodes and internodes of the stem or leaf.
  
• The cells here rapidly divide and helps in the elongation and growth of the plants at the nodes and internodes (stems and leaves) and also enables the longitudinal growth of the stem and leaves in grasses.
  
• Intercalary meristems are present at the nodes of hollow stems or culm (in sugarcane and bamboo) which allows rapid stem elongation whereas, in grasses, they are present at the base of leaf blades which allow damaged leaves to rapidly regrow.
  
• So, the correct answer is 'Intercalary meristem'.