Question

Secondary growth in stems is usually seen in ________.

a. monocots

b. dicots

c. both monocots and dicots

d. neither monocots nor dicots

Short answer

b. dicots

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 Introduction

The growth of a plant is associated with development and reproduction. Growth can be primary or secondary. Longitudinal growth (length), as well as latitudinal growth (width), are also seen in plants. Specialized tissues are responsible for plant growth and development.

Step-2 Explanation

Primary growth is caused by apical meristems which are responsible for the growth in length of shoot and root. Lateral meristems are responsible for secondary growth which increases the thickness of some plants. In dicots secondary growth takes place, but in the case of monocots, the secondary growth does not occur because lateral meristem is absent in the case of monocots or herbaceous plants.

Lateral meristems are absent in monocots. Therefore, monocots are unable to have secondary growth.

Lateral meristems are present in dicots but are absent in monocots.

Lateral meristems are only found in dicot plants.

Step-3 Final Answer

Therefore, option ‘b’ is the correct answer.

Lateral meristems are present only in dicots which are responsible for secondary growth.