Question

The girth of stem increases due to :

• A. Lateral Meristem
• B. Apical Meristem
• C. Intercalary Meristem
• D. None of them.

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Lateral Meristem

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Lateral meristem is responsible for the increase in the girth of the stem.
2. It is found beneath the bark (called cork cambium) and in vascular bundles of dicot roots and stems (called vascular cambium) as thin layers.
3. It is composed of such initials which divide mainly in one plane and increases the girth of the stem.
4. Lateral meristem occurs at the lateral portion of the plant body.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B:

1. Apical meristem is responsible for increasing the size of the apex and root tip.
2. They are found at the apices of stem and root.
3. Apical meristem forms growing points at the apices of roots and stems.

Option C:

1. Intercalary meristems are present in between permanent tissues.
2. They may be present either at the base of the internodes or at the base of the node.
3. Intercalary Meristem increases the length of the plant or its organs.
4. They originate from the apical meristem and are short-lived.

Final answer: The girth of the stem increases due to lateral meristem.