In leaves, ground tissue consists of -

Options

A. Mesophyll
B. Epidermis
C. Vascular tissues
D. Guard cells

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Ground Tissue in Leaves**: Ground tissue in leaves is primarily responsible for photosynthesis, storage, and support. It is located between the upper and lower epidermis.

2. **Identifying Components of Ground Tissue**: The main component of ground tissue in leaves is the mesophyll. Mesophyll is further divided into two types: palisade mesophyll and spongy mesophyll.

3. **Palisade Mesophyll**: This layer is located just beneath the upper epidermis and consists of tightly packed, elongated parenchyma cells that are rich in chloroplasts, making it the primary site for photosynthesis.

4. **Spongy Mesophyll**: This layer is found beneath the palisade mesophyll and consists of loosely arranged parenchyma cells with air spaces between them. This structure facilitates gas exchange (CO2 and O2) and also contributes to photosynthesis.

5. **Exclusion of Other Options**: The epidermis is a part of the dermal tissue system and does not belong to the ground tissue. Similarly, vascular tissue, which includes xylem and phloem, is part of the vascular tissue system and not ground tissue. Guard cells, which are associated with stomata, are also derived from the epidermis.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question "In leaves, ground tissue consists of" is mesophyll.

**Final Answer**: Mesophyll

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