If the dicot stem is stained for starch, the most intense colouration would develop in

Options

A. epiblema
B. phloem is sandwiched by xylem
C. endodermis
D. pith

Answer

To determine where the most intense coloration would develop when staining a dicot stem for starch, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure of a Dicot Stem**:
- A dicot stem consists of several layers, including the epidermis (outer layer), cortex, vascular bundles (which include xylem and phloem), endodermis, and pith.

2. **Identifying the Function of Each Layer**:
- **Epiblema (Epidermis)**: This is the outermost layer responsible for protection and absorption but does not store starch.
- **Phloem**: This tissue is responsible for the transport of nutrients, particularly sugars, but it is not primarily a storage tissue for starch.
- **Endodermis**: This layer surrounds the vascular bundles and is known to contain a starch sheath, which stores starch.
- **Pith**: This is the central part of the stem that provides nutritional support but does not primarily store starch.

3. **Focusing on the Starch Storage**:
- Among the layers mentioned, the endodermis is specifically noted for having a starch sheath, which contains starch grains.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, when the dicot stem is stained for starch, the most intense coloration would develop in the **endodermis** due to the presence of the starch sheath.

### Final Answer:
The most intense coloration would develop in the **endodermis** of the dicot stem when stained for starch.

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