Question

Which of these is a modification to save water?

• A. Spine
• B. Potato
• C. Tendril
• D. Prop roots

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Spine

The correct option is A:
Explanation for the correct option:

1. Apart from the manufacturing of food, there are special functions that can be performed by leaves. These functions can be achieved by modification in the structure and function of the leaf.
2. In some plants, the leaves convert into sharper, pointed structures known as spines. These spines are meant to protect the plants against grazing animals.
3. These spines help to reduce transpiration and thus decreased the loss of water, a characteristic necessary for survival in desert environments.
4. Examples: cactus and prickly pear.

Explanation for incorrect options:
Option B:
Potatoes are underground stems that are modified to store excess food.

Option C:
Tendrils are leaves that are modified to become thinner, coiler, and thread-like structures. Leaf tendrils help the plant's body to get physical support to climb up steep walls. Example: pea, grapevine.
Option D:
Hanging rope-like structures known as prop roots helps to give extra support to the tree branches standing horizontally. Examples: peepal, banyan, etc.

Final answer: Spines are modified leaves that play a crucial role in saving water.