The pericycle of roots is never sclerenchymatous because it

Options

A. Does not act as a mechanical tissue in roots
B. Is the place of origin of root branches
C. Gives rise to root hairs
D. Gives rise to root hairs (when the root is young), and to root branches (at maturity)

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Pericycle**: The pericycle is a layer of cells located just inside the endodermis in the roots of vascular plants. It is part of the vascular cylinder and plays a crucial role in root development.

2. **Function of the Pericycle**: The primary functions of the pericycle include:
- Serving as the origin for lateral roots.
- Participating in secondary growth by contributing to the formation of the vascular cambium.

3. **Why Pericycle is Not Sclerenchymatous**: Sclerenchyma is a type of tissue that provides mechanical support and is characterized by thick, lignified cell walls. The pericycle does not become sclerenchymatous because:
- It needs to remain capable of cell division to facilitate the growth of lateral roots.
- If it were sclerenchymatous, it would be rigid and unable to divide, thus hindering the formation of new roots.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: "Does not act as a mechanical tissue" - This is incorrect because while it does not primarily serve as a mechanical tissue, it is not the reason for being non-sclerenchymatous.
- **Option B**: "Is the place of origin of root branches" - This is correct. The pericycle is indeed the origin of lateral roots.
- **Option C**: "Give rise to root hairs" - Incorrect. Root hairs originate from the epidermis, not the pericycle.
- **Option D**: "Give rise to root hairs when the root is young and to root branches at maturity" - Incorrect. Root hairs do not originate from the pericycle.

5. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is that the pericycle of roots is never sclerenchymatous because it is the place of origin of lateral roots.

---