Vascular rays are formed by the activity of -

Options

A. Fusiform initials
B. Ray initials
C. Phellogen
D. Wound cambium

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Vascular Rays**: Vascular rays, also known as medullary rays, are structures in the plant that facilitate the radial conduction of substances. They are important for the transport of nutrients and water across the plant.

2. **Origin of Vascular Rays**: Vascular rays originate from the vascular cambium, which is a type of meristematic tissue responsible for secondary growth in plants.

3. **Types of Vascular Cambium**: The vascular cambium consists of two types of initials:
- **Fusiform Initials**: These are elongated cells that give rise to the vertical elements of the xylem and phloem.
- **Ray Initials**: These are shorter, radially oriented cells that give rise to the vascular rays.

4. **Function of Vascular Rays**: The primary function of vascular rays is to conduct substances radially within the plant, allowing for the distribution of nutrients and water from the center of the stem to the outer layers.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the origin and function of vascular rays, we can conclude that vascular rays are formed by the activity of ray initials in the vascular cambium.

**Final Answer**: Vascular rays are formed by the activity of ray initials.

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