Question

Heterophyllous development due to the environment can be an example of

• A. senescence
• B. plasticity
• C. dormancy
• D. none of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is B plasticity

Heterophylly is the development of different types of leaves on the same plant. It is an example of plasticity, the ability of plants to form different kinds of structures in response to environmental factors (like climate, water availability) or phases of life. As in the diagram (figure b), the plant buttercup has different morphological structures depending on the environment it presents. In the terrestrial habitat, it has expanded leaves and in the marine habitat, it bears dissected leaves. Similarly in larkspur (figure a), the leaves in the juvenile phase have different shape than that of the adult phase.


Senescence is the complete loss in the power of cell division and is generally associated with aging.

Dormancy is the state in which normal physical functions are suspended for a time period.