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Question #46795
The Question
Read the following statements regarding the anatomical adaptations of leaves. Which of the following statements about bulliform cells is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
They are modified, large, empty, and colourless adaxial epidermal cells situated along the veins in the leaves of grasses.
- B.
When these cells are turgid, the leaf surface is exposed, whereas their flaccidity induces inward curling of the leaf to minimize transpiration.
- C.
They represent a conserved evolutionary trait universally expressed and functional across all monocotyledonous families to manage xerophytic stress.
- D.
Their functional mechanism is often vestigial or significantly reduced in hydrophytic grasses and shade-tolerant species due to the absence of severe water stress.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Bulliform Cell Function|Adaptive Radiation Logic|Inflorescence Types
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Taxonomic overgeneralization.
Students frequently memorize 'bulliform cells = monocot leaf' because NCERT introduces them under the 'Isobilateral (Monocotyledonous) Leaf' heading.
The trap exploits this by substituting 'grasses' (Poaceae) with 'all monocotyledonous families'.
It also tests the evolutionary logic of Adaptive Radiation: a trait's functional expression is dictated by the ecological niche (xerophytic vs. hydrophytic), preventing rote memorization of anatomical features without physiological context.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Anatomy of Flowering Plants - Class 11 |
| Concept | Bulliform Cell Function |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |