The elongated or tube-like cells, with thick , lignified walls and tapering ends are

Options

A. Tracheids
B. Vessels
C. Xylem fiber
D. Xylem parenchyma

Answer

To solve the question regarding the elongated or tube-like cells with thick, lignified walls and tapering ends, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Cell Types in Xylem**:
- Xylem is a type of vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of water and minerals. It consists of several types of cells, including tracheids, vessels, xylem fibers, and xylem parenchyma.

2. **Examine the Characteristics of Each Cell Type**:
- **Tracheids**: These are elongated, tube-like cells with thick, lignified walls and tapering ends. They are involved in the conduction of water.
- **Vessels**: These are cylindrical structures made up of vessel members that also conduct water but have perforations for easier flow.
- **Xylem Fibers**: These cells have very thick walls, resulting in a small or obliterated lumen, and are primarily supportive rather than conductive.
- **Xylem Parenchyma**: These are living cells that store nutrients and do not have the characteristics of being elongated or tube-like.

3. **Determine the Correct Answer**:
- Among the options provided, the cell type that fits the description of being elongated, tube-like, with thick lignified walls and tapering ends is **tracheids**.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the answer to the question is **tracheids**.