Question

The dead element present in the phloem is

• A. Companion cells
• B. Phloem fibres
• C. Phloem parenchyma
• D. Sieve tubes

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Phloem fibres

The Correct Option is: B

Explanation for correct option :

1. The phloem fibers are thick-walled, elongated, spindle-shaped cells that possess a narrow lumen.
2. The phloem fibers provide mechanical strength to the tissue.
3. Among the four kinds of phloem elements, phloem fibers are the only dead tissue.

Explanation for Incorrect option :

Option A: The companion cells have cytoplasm and a prominent nucleus and help to assist the sieve tubes in the conduction of food materials.

Option C: The parenchyma cells associated with the phloem are called phloem parenchyma. These are thin-walled with living cells.

Option D: Sieve tubes are the conducting elements of the phloem.

Final answer :

The dead element present in the phloem is Phloem fibers.