Question

Based on the position of meristems, How many types of meristems are there? Explain its types.

Answer 1

Classification based on position:
On the basis of their position in the plant, meristems are of three types:
i) Apical meristem
ii) Intercalary meristem and
iii) Lateral meristem.
i. Apical meristem:
• These are found at the apices or growing points of root, shoot and bring about increase in length.

• They include both pro-meristem as well as primary meristem.

ii. Intercalary meristem:
• It lies between the region of permanent tissues and is part of primary meristem which is detached due to formation of intermittent permanent tissues.

• It is found either at the base of leaf

e.g. Pinus or at the base of internodes e.g. grasses.
iii. Lateral Meristem:
• These are arranged parallel to sides of origin and normally divide radially to give secondary permanent tissues.

• These increase the thickness of the plant part.