Question

What is the special feature of meristem? (a) It is present in every tissue (b) Its capacity to divide (c) Its capacity to self-perpetuate (d) Both (b) and (c)

Short answer

The special feature of meristem is both its capacity to divide and its capacity to self-perpetuate, hence, the answer is (d) Both (b) and (c).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Meristem

Meristem is a type of plant tissue which is composed of undifferentiated cells that can continue to divide and differentiate. This process allows the plant to grow.

Analyzing the Options

Option A: Meristem is not present in every tissue, but at certain localized regions in a plant. Thus, option A is incorrect.\nOption B: One crucial function of meristems is that they have the capacity to divide and differentiate into specialized cells that contribute to the plant's growth. Thus, option B is correct.\nOption C: Meristem tissues have the capability to self-perpetuate, meaning they maintain their own population by dividing to produce more meristem cells. Therefore, option C is also correct.\nOption D: Both the capacities to divide and to self-perpetuate are key characteristics of meristematic tissues.

Choosing the Right Answer

By analyzing the options, it can be concluded that both options B and C define the special feature of a meristem. They are its ability to undergo cell division and its capacity to maintain itself. Thus, the right answer is option D.

Key concepts

Meristem

Meristem is a special type of plant tissue vital for plant growth. It consists of undifferentiated cells, which means these cells haven't yet developed into a specific type of cell. This property makes them incredibly versatile, allowing them to transform and adapt as the plant requires different cell types.

These cells are strategically located at specific regions of the plant, such as the tips of roots and shoots. Here, they serve as engines of growth, extending parts of the plant. By concentrating in these key areas, meristem cells can efficiently drive plant elongation and increase in size.

• Concentrated in root and shoot tips
• Versatile because they're undifferentiated
• Enable plant growth and adaptation

Cell Division

Cell division is a fundamental characteristic of meristematic tissue. This process allows meristem cells to grow and multiply, making it possible for plants to expand and form new tissues. In the meristem, cell division occurs continuously, providing a constant supply of new cells.

There are two main phases in cell division: mitosis and cytokinesis. Mitosis is when the nucleus of the cell divides, ensuring each new cell has the proper number of chromosomes. Cytokinesis follows mitosis, splitting the cell itself into two distinct daughter cells. Through these phases, the meristem maintains its ability to produce new cells, fueling plant growth.

• Continuous division ensures growth
• Mitosis for nucleus division
• Cytokinesis for cell splitting

Self-Perpetuation

Self-perpetuation is a fascinating ability of meristem tissue that helps sustain plant development over time. It means that meristem cells don't just produce cells that differentiate into other types; they also create new meristem cells. This ensures that the plant continues to have a supply of meristem tissue capable of growth and division.

This self-sustaining mechanism involves a balance between differentiation and the renewal of meristem cells. By maintaining their own population, meristematic cells ensure that plants can adapt to their environment, repair damages, and keep growing throughout their life. For this reason, the capability of self-perpetuation is just as important as their ability to undergo cell division.

• Produces new meristem cells
• Ensures growth and repair
• Critical for long-term plant development