Question

What type of meristem is found only in monocots, such as lawn grasses? Explain how this type of meristematic tissue is beneficial in lawn grasses that are mowed each week.

a) Cork cambium; it helps in root formation.
b) Lateral meristem; it helps in secondary growth.
c) Apical meristem; it allows regrowth after being cut.
d) Vascular cambium; it enables stem elongation.

Answer 1

Apical meristems found in the tip of stems and roots promote growth by elongation; the apical meristems at the base of the leaf blades allow for regrowth after being cut. Therefore, the correct option is c) Apical meristem; it allows regrowth after being cut.

Step-by-step explanation:

Apical meristems are found at the apex, or tip, of roots and buds, allowing roots and stems to grow in length and leaves and flowers to differentiate. Roots and stems grow in length because the meristem adds tissue "behind" it, constantly propelling itself further into the ground (for roots) or air (for stems). Often, the apical meristem of a single branch will become dominant, suppressing the growth of meristems on other branches and leading to the development of a single trunk. In the case of lawn grasses that are mowed each week, the apical meristems at the base of the leaf blades allow for regrowth after being cut. Therefore, the correct option is c) Apical meristem; it allows regrowth after being cut.