Increase in the girth of plant is known as/done by

Options

A. Primary growth
B. Apical meristem
C. Intercalary meristem
D. Secondary growth

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Plant Growth Types**:
- Plant growth can be categorized into two main types: primary growth and secondary growth. Primary growth is responsible for the increase in the length of the plant, while secondary growth is responsible for the increase in girth (or diameter).

2. **Identifying Meristematic Tissues**:
- Meristematic tissues are regions in plants where cells are actively dividing. There are three types of meristematic tissues:
- **Apical Meristem**: Located at the tips of roots and shoots, responsible for primary growth (length).
- **Intercalary Meristem**: Found between nodes, also contributes to growth but not specifically to girth.
- **Lateral Meristem**: Located on the sides of the plant, responsible for secondary growth (girth).

3. **Defining Secondary Growth**:
- Secondary growth refers to the increase in the girth of the plant, which occurs due to the activity of the lateral meristem. This growth is significant in woody plants, allowing them to become thicker over time.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the increase in the girth of the plant is known as secondary growth, which is primarily facilitated by the lateral meristem.

**Final Answer**: The increase in the girth of the plant is known as secondary growth.

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