Select an incorrect statement wrt modifications of stem

Options

A. Underground stems of Colocasia are modified to store food in them.
B. Stem tendrils are found in gourds and grapevines
C. Axillary buds of stems may also get modified into woody, straight and pointed thorns.
D. Thorns are found in many plants such as (Opuntia), and (Euphorbia)

Answer

To solve the question of selecting an incorrect statement regarding the modifications of stems, we will analyze each option provided:

1. **Option 1**: "Underground stems of Colocasia are modified to store food."
- **Analysis**: This statement is correct. Colocasia, commonly known as taro, has underground stems (corms) that are modified for food storage.

2. **Option 2**: "Some tendrils are found in grapevine and gourds."
- **Analysis**: This statement is also correct. Tendrils are specialized structures that provide support to climbing plants like grapevines and gourds.

3. **Option 3**: "Auxiliary buds of stems are modified into woody straight pointed thorns."
- **Analysis**: This statement is correct as well. In many plants, such as roses, the auxiliary buds can develop into thorns, which serve as a protective mechanism.

4. **Option 4**: "Thorns are found in many plants such as Opuntia and Euphorbia."
- **Analysis**: This statement is incorrect. While Opuntia (cactus) and Euphorbia do have modified structures, they do not have true thorns. Instead, Opuntia has flattened stems that perform photosynthesis and are not woody. The structures that may appear thorn-like are actually modified leaves or branches.

**Conclusion**: The incorrect statement is option 4: "Thorns are found in many plants such as Opuntia and Euphorbia."