Underground stem cannot be distinguished from root on the basis of

Options

A. nodes and internode
B. presence of scaly leaves
C. axillary and terminal buds
D. presence of vessels

Answer

To solve the question regarding how underground stems cannot be distinguished from roots, we will analyze the characteristics of both structures and identify the one that does not serve as a distinguishing feature.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structures**:
- **Underground Stem**: This is a modified stem that grows below the soil surface. Examples include tubers (like potatoes) and rhizomes (like ginger).
- **Root**: This is the part of the plant that typically grows underground, anchoring the plant and absorbing water and nutrients.

2. **Identifying Distinguishing Features**:
- **Nodes and Internodes**: These are present in stems but not in roots. Stems have nodes (points where leaves or branches originate) and internodes (the segments between nodes). Roots do not have these structures.
- **Scaly Leaves**: Scaly leaves are found in underground stems (like in onions) but are absent in roots.
- **Auxiliary and Terminal Buds**: These are present in stems but not in roots. Buds are involved in the growth of new shoots.
- **Presence of Vessels**: Both roots and underground stems contain xylem vessels that transport water and minerals. This characteristic is common to both structures.

3. **Conclusion**:
- The feature that cannot be used to distinguish between underground stems and roots is the **presence of vessels**. Both structures possess xylem vessels, which means this characteristic does not help in differentiating them.

### Final Answer:
**Underground stem cannot be distinguished from root on the basis of the presence of vessels.**