Reduction in vascular tissue mechanical tissue and cuticle is characteristic of

Options

A. Epiphytes
B. Hydrophytes
C. Xerophytes
D. Mesophytes

Answer

To solve the question regarding the reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Terms**:
- Vascular tissue: This includes xylem and phloem, responsible for the transport of water, nutrients, and food in plants.
- Mechanical tissue: This provides structural support to the plant.
- Cuticle: This is a waxy layer that covers the epidermis of leaves and stems, helping to reduce water loss.

2. **Identify the Plant Types**:
- **Epiphytes**: Plants that grow on other plants but are not parasitic. They usually have well-developed vascular tissues.
- **Hydrophytes**: Aquatic plants that thrive in water. They often have reduced vascular and mechanical tissues.
- **Xerophytes**: Plants adapted to dry environments, typically with thick cuticles and well-developed vascular tissues.
- **Mesophytes**: Plants that require moderate amounts of water, usually having well-developed vascular and mechanical tissues.

3. **Analyze the Characteristics**:
- The question specifies a reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle.
- Hydrophytes are adapted to living in water, where the need for extensive vascular and mechanical support is reduced due to the buoyancy of water.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the analysis, hydrophytes are characterized by a reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle. Therefore, the correct answer is **Option B: Hydrophytes**.

### Final Answer:
The reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle is characteristic of **hydrophytes** (Option B).

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