Question

Leaves of Victoria regia are rigid due to

• A. Stellate parenchyma
• B. Stellate sclerenchyma
• C. Osteosclereids
• D. Macrosclereids

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Stellate sclerenchyma

Victoria regia belongs to the genus of water-lilies, from the family Nymphaeceae and inhabits the still waters of all the rivers of the South American continent. These are characterized by the presence of very large green leaves that are orbiculate, peltate, flat with their margin elevated all around and floating on water surface. The leaves borne on long foot stalks are radiately and reticulately ribbed and the venation of lamina corrugated involute. A cross section reveals the presence of stellate sclerenchyma cells. The sclerenchyma cells with thick nonelastic walls provide the strength and support for these vast leaves

So, the correct option is B.