Which of the following plants show reduction in vascular tissue and mechanical tissue and cuticle

Options

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

Answer

To solve the question of which plants show a reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Tissues:**
- **Vascular Tissue:** This includes xylem and phloem, responsible for the transport of water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant.
- **Mechanical Tissue:** This provides structural support to the plant, helping it to stand upright.
- **Cuticle:** A waxy layer that covers the surface of leaves and stems, reducing water loss.

2. **Identify Plant Types:**
- **Hydrophytes:** These are aquatic plants that live in water. They have adapted to their environment, which influences their tissue structure.
- **Xerophytes:** These are plants adapted to dry environments, requiring more vascular and mechanical tissues to conserve water.
- **Mesophytes:** These plants thrive in moderate conditions, requiring a balanced amount of all tissues.
- **Epiphytes:** These plants grow on other plants for support but do not derive nutrients from them.

3. **Analyze Hydrophytes:**
- Hydrophytes do not require extensive vascular tissue because water is abundant in their environment, allowing for direct cell-to-cell transport.
- The buoyancy of water provides natural support, reducing the need for mechanical tissue.
- Since they are submerged or surrounded by water, they do not need a thick cuticle to prevent water loss.

4. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the analysis, hydrophytes are the plants that show a reduction in vascular tissue, mechanical tissue, and cuticle due to their aquatic environment.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **Hydrophytes**.

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