Question

Choose the correct statement with respect to medullary rays.

• A. Medullary rays may be parenchymatous or collenchymatous in nature
• B. Primary medullary rays are present inside primary vascular bundles
• C. Secondary medullary rays are formed by the cork cambium
• D. They help in radial conduction of food and water

Answer 1

The correct option is D They help in radial conduction of food and water

Medullary rays are parenchymatous cells arranged radially between adjacent vascular bundles. These are also called pith rays as they are extensions of pith. They extend up to the pericycle and cortex region.

Secondary medullary rays are formed by the vascular cambium and pass through the secondary xylem and phloem as radiating strips or bands in the horizontal direction. Both primary and secondary medullary rays help in radial conduction of food, water and minerals.