Question

Which of the following is modified to form air cavities in aquatic plants?

• A. Sclerenchyma
• B. Aerenchyma
• C. Collenchyma
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Aerenchyma

The correct option is B.

The explanation for the correct option:

1. Aerenchyma is the spongy tissues, which form channels or spaces.
2. They are modified to produce air cavities in aquatic plants like water hyacinth, water lily, etc.
3. They permit the exchange of gases between the root and the shoot and offer a low resistance internal pathway for the interchange of gases.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Sclerenchyma comprises dead cells and possesses heavily thickened secondary walls, which comprise lignin.
2. The cells of sclerenchyma are rigid and non-stretchable.
3. They generally grow in the non-developing parts of the plant body like the mature stems or the bark.

Option C:

1. Collenchyma is the long elongated cells, exhibiting irregular cell walls.
2. They comprise thick deposits of cellulose on their cell walls.
3. They provide strength to the tissues and longitudinal interlocking of the cell.
4. It is found in the cortex of the leaves and stems and offers primary support to the tissues in plants.

Final answer: Aerenchyma is modified to produce air cavities in aquatic plants.