Question

Loosely arranged parenchyma cells in Lenticels:

• A. Epithem
• B. Hydathode
• C. Stomata
• D. Complementary cells

Hint:

Lenticels are associated with secondary growth and are formed by phellogen, which produces complementary cells on the outer side for gas exchange.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Concept of lenticels:
Lenticels are small, lens-shaped openings present in the bark of woody stems. They help in the exchange of gases between the internal tissues of the plant and the external environment.

Step 2: Structure of lenticels:
Below the opening of a lenticel, the cork cambium (phellogen) forms a group of loosely packed, thin-walled parenchyma cells instead of tightly packed cork cells.
These cells contain large intercellular spaces, which allow efficient gaseous exchange.

Step 3: Identification of the cells:
The loosely arranged cells present in lenticels are known as complementary cells.

Step 4: Eliminating other options:

• Epithem: Found in hydathodes and involved in guttation.
• Hydathode: A structure responsible for removal of excess water.
• Stomata: Openings on leaves mainly for transpiration and gas exchange.

Step 5: Conclusion:
Thus, the correct answer is Complementary cells.