Question

In fern, rhizome

• A. Vessels are absent.
• B. Sieve tubes are absent.
• C. Parenchyma is absent.
• D. Tracheids are absent.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Vessels are absent.

Fern stems are often called rhizomes, but this term refers to those with a long-creeping or climbing habit. If the stem is short and compact and radially symmetric, either erect, prostrate or ascending then it is called a caudex or rootstock. In some cases, the caudex is erect and tree-like with an apical radial tuft of leaves in which case it is often called a trunk. The rhizomes of ferns are very rarely naked and usually have some form of covering, especially on their growing tips, to provide protection from the extremes of temperature, desiccation, predation and physical abrasion. The rhizome have sieve tubes but there are no vessels.

So, the correct answer is option A.