Question

Read the following statements and select the correct ones.
(i). Phloem parenchyma is absent in most monocots
(ii). Gymnosperms lack tracheids and vessels
(iii). Gymnosperms lack companion cells

• A. (i) and (ii)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (iii)
• D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

Answer 1

The correct option is C (i) and (iii)

Phloem parenchyma cells called transfer cells and border parenchyma cells, are located near the terminations of sieve tubes, where they function in the transport of foods. In monocots, vascular bundles are open (lack cambium) so no secondary growth takes place and in monocots, the function of phloem parenchyma is performed by water cavities. Companion cells are found within the phloem of flowering plants. Each companion cell is closely associated with cells of the seive tubes in angiosperms and regulate osmotic pressure in the tubes, these are absent in gymnosperms where seive cells are present instead. Gymnosperms lack vessels and conduction of water and minerals is done by trachieds.

So, the correct answer is '(i) and (iii)'