which of the following modification of stem protects the plant from following animals and reduces transpiration?

Options

A. Phyllodes
B. Thoms
C. Spines
D. Tendrils

Answer

To solve the question regarding which modification of stem protects the plant from animals and reduces transpiration, we can analyze the options provided: thorns, spines, tendrils, and phyllodes.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Function of Each Modification**:
- **Tendrils**: Tendrils are slender, coiling structures that help plants climb. Their primary function is to provide support rather than protection from animals or to reduce transpiration. Therefore, tendrils are not the correct answer.

2. **Analyze Thorns**:
- **Thorns** are sharp, woody structures that can deter herbivores from eating the plant. They do provide some level of protection, but they do not significantly reduce transpiration. Thus, while they protect the plant, they do not fulfill both criteria of the question.

3. **Evaluate Spines**:
- **Spines** are modified leaves that serve two main purposes: they protect the plant from herbivores and significantly reduce transpiration. For example, in cacti, the true leaves are lost, and spines take their place, minimizing water loss while providing defense against animals. This makes spines a strong candidate for the answer.

4. **Consider Phyllodes**:
- **Phyllodes** are modified petioles that take on the appearance and function of leaves. While they can perform photosynthesis, they do not primarily serve to protect the plant from animals or reduce transpiration effectively. Therefore, phyllodes are not the correct answer.

5. **Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all the options, the modification of stem that protects the plant from animals and reduces transpiration is **spines**.

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