Stem tendrils develop from ..... in plants like gourds

Options

A. axillary bud
B. apical bud
C. leaves
D. apical meristem

Answer

To solve the question "Stem tendrils develop from ..... in plants like gourds," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Structure of Tendrils**:
- Tendrils are specialized structures in climbing plants that help them attach to supports. They are typically slender and can coil around objects.

2. **Identify the Origin of Tendrils**:
- In plants like gourds (family Cucurbitaceae), tendrils are modified stems. This means they develop from specific parts of the plant.

3. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Option 1: Axillary Bud**: This is the correct answer. Tendrils in gourds develop from axillary buds, which are located in the leaf axils (the angle between the leaf and the stem).
- **Option 2: Apical Bud**: This option is incorrect. The apical bud is located at the tip of the stem and is responsible for vertical growth, not for forming tendrils.
- **Option 3: Leaves**: This option is also incorrect. While leaves can have various modifications, tendrils specifically arise from the stem.
- **Option 4: Apical Meristem**: This option is incorrect as well. The apical meristem is responsible for the growth of new cells at the tips of roots and shoots, not for the formation of tendrils.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the evaluation, the correct answer is that stem tendrils develop from **axillary buds** in plants like gourds.

### Final Answer:
**Stem tendrils develop from axillary buds in plants like gourds.**

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