Question

Pericycle in roots is never thick and sclerenchymatous because

• A. it does not act as mechanical tissue in roots
• B. it gives rise to root hairs
• C. it is place o f origin of lateral roots
• D. it gives rise both to root hairs and root branches

Answer 1

The correct option is A it does not act as mechanical tissue in roots

Pericycle is the thin layer made up of mostly parenchymatous cells. They mostly surround the stele (vascular bundles) of the plants. Pericycle is the layer which separates the endodermis and vascular tissues from each other. Its main function is support, protection of the plant, also helps the plants to stand upright as it protects xylem and phloem tissues of plants. They do not have sclerenchymatous cells as they never perform the function of mechanical strength and are simply for protection of vascular bundles.

So, the correct option is 'It does not act as mechanical tissue in roots'.