16. In grasses, epicotyl has a shoot apex & a few leaf primordia enclosed in a ____________ foliar structure, called as_______

Options

A. Hollow, Coleorhiza
B. Solid, Coleoptile
C. Hollow, Coleoptile
D. Solid, Coleorhiza

Answer

To answer the question, we need to identify the two blanks in the statement regarding the structure of the epicotyl in grasses.

1. **Understanding the Epicotyl**: The epicotyl is the part of the seedling that develops into the shoot. In grasses, it contains the shoot apex and a few leaf primordia.

2. **Identifying the Foliar Structure**: The question asks for the type of foliar structure that encloses the shoot apex and leaf primordia. In grasses, this structure is specifically designed to protect and support the developing shoot.

3. **Determining the Characteristics of the Structure**: The foliar structure enclosing the shoot apex and leaf primordia is hollow. This hollow structure allows for the growth and emergence of the shoot as the plant develops.

4. **Naming the Structure**: The correct term for this hollow foliar structure is "coleoptile." The coleoptile serves to protect the young shoot as it pushes through the soil during germination.

5. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the complete statement is: "In grasses, epicotyl has a shoot apex & a few leaf primordia enclosed in a hollow foliar structure, called as coleoptile."