Phloem of monocots generally lacks

Options

A. sieve tubes
B. phleoem fibres
C. phloem parenchyma
D. companion cells

Answer

To answer the question "Phloem of monocots generally lacks," we will analyze the components of phloem and identify which one is absent in monocots.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Components of Phloem**:
- Phloem is a type of vascular tissue responsible for the transport of food (mainly sugars) and some minerals, vitamins, and hormones.
- The main components of phloem include:
- Sieve tube elements
- Phloem fibers
- Phloem parenchyma
- Companion cells

2. **Identify the Function of Each Component**:
- **Sieve Tube Elements**: Responsible for the conduction of food sap.
- **Phloem Fibers**: Provide structural support.
- **Phloem Parenchyma**: Living cells that store food and help in the transport of nutrients.
- **Companion Cells**: Assist sieve tube elements in their function and are involved in the loading and unloading of sugars.

3. **Examine the Phloem in Monocots**:
- In monocots, certain components of phloem are either absent or significantly reduced compared to dicots.
- Specifically, monocots generally lack companion cells. Instead, they have a different arrangement of sieve tube elements and may have other supportive structures.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the analysis, the correct answer to the question is that the phloem of monocots generally lacks **companion cells**.

### Final Answer:
The phloem of monocots generally lacks **companion cells**.