Why apical and intercalary meristems are called perimary meristems?

Options

A. They form primary plant body
B. They form secondary plant body
C. They are apical in position
D. They are formed from permanent tissue

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Meristems**: Begin by understanding what meristems are. Meristems are regions in plants where cells are actively dividing. They are responsible for growth in plants.

2. **Types of Meristems**: Identify the two types of primary meristems in question: apical and intercalary meristems.
- **Apical Meristems**: Located at the tips of roots and shoots, they are responsible for the vertical growth of the plant.
- **Intercalary Meristems**: Found between mature tissues, particularly at the base of internodes and in the leaves, they contribute to the elongation of the internodes.

3. **Function of Primary Meristems**: Explain that primary meristems are involved in the formation of the primary plant body. They are the first type of meristematic tissue to develop in a plant and are crucial for initial growth.

4. **Role in Plant Growth**: Discuss how both apical and intercalary meristems contribute to the overall growth of the plant. Apical meristems increase height, while intercalary meristems increase the length of internodes.

5. **Transition to Permanent Tissues**: Mention that once the primary meristems have fulfilled their role in growth, they differentiate into permanent tissues, which do not divide further. This transition signifies the completion of the primary plant body's formation.

6. **Conclusion**: Conclude that apical and intercalary meristems are called primary meristems because they are the initial meristematic tissues responsible for forming the primary plant body during the early stages of a plant's life.

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