Question

The length of different internodes in a culm of sugarcane is variable, because of

• A. Shoot apical meristem
• B. Position of axillary buds
• C. Size of leaf lamina at the node below each internode
• D. Intercalary meristem

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Intercalary meristem

The length of different internodes in a culm of sugarcane is variable because of the intercalary meristem. Intercalary meristems are capable of cell division and they allow for rapid growth and regrowth of many monocots. Intercalary meristems at the nodes of bamboo and internodes of sugarcane allow for rapid stem elongation, while those at the base of most grass leaf blades allow damaged leaves to rapidly regrow.

So, the correct answer is option D.