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Question #46299
The Question
A targeted genetic mutation in a perennial dicotyledonous tree completely inhibits the development of the intrafascicular cambium, effectively rendering its vascular bundles 'closed'. Assuming the plant survives, which of the following represents the most accurate anatomical and ecological consequence of this mutation?
Options
- A.
It will fail to form a continuous vascular cambial ring, halting secondary xylem production and drastically reducing its long-term carbon sequestration capacity.
- B.
It will transition to an atactostele anatomy with scattered vascular bundles, maintaining primary growth but ceasing secondary productivity.
- C.
The cork cambium (phellogen) will overcompensate by producing secondary vascular tissues to maintain biomass accumulation.
- D.
The medullary rays will dedifferentiate to form the entire vascular cambium, allowing normal wood formation and carbon storage.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Secondary Productivity|Vascular Cambium|Monocots vs Dicots
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question tests the synthesis of Plant Anatomy and Ecosystem Ecology.
Students often memorize that 'dicots have open bundles' without understanding the mechanical necessity of the intrafascicular cambium in completing the continuous cambial ring.
The trap lies in assuming that compensatory mechanisms (like cork cambium or medullary rays alone) can take over wood formation, or that losing cambium magically converts dicot anatomy into monocot anatomy.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Anatomy of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Vascular Bundle Openness |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |