Question

Select the odd one out, giving reason

• A. Opuntia
• B. Pine
• C. Juniper
• D. Fir

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Opuntia

The correct answer is option (A)

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Opuntia, commonly known as prickly pear is a xerophytic plant that is it grows on land in hot and dry conditions in the scarcity of water.
2. The habitat of the opuntia is terrestrial and they are usually found in the deserts.
3. They show adaptation in the roots, leaves, and stems to prevent water loss through transpiration.
4. The stems are modified to flat green photosynthesizing structures that have a thick waxy coating which reduces the loss of water at high temperatures.
5. Also, the leaves of these plants are reduced to spines to reduce the surface area and decrease the water loss.

Explanation of the incorrect options:
Option (B):

1. Pine is a mesophyte plant that is it grows on land in the presence of sufficient water.
2. The habitat of pine trees is terrestrial and they are usually found in the mountains.
3. They have a cone-shaped structure and slopping branches.
4. It is an adaptation to the mountain as the cone shape allows easy sliding of rain and snow.
5. Another adaptation is seen in the leaves of these trees as they are needle-shaped to minimize water loss.

Option (C):

1. Juniper is also a mesophyte plant that is terrestrial and is found in the mountains.

Option (D):

1. Fir is also a mesophyte and is found in mountains, i.e., have a terrestrial habitat.

Final answer: Hence, Opuntia is the odd one out as it is a xerophyte and is found in deserts while the others are mesophytes and are found in mountains.