Casparian strip is present in

Options

A. Pericycle
B. Cortical layer
C. Epidermis
D. Endodermis

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks where the Casparian strip is located among the given options: pericycle, cortical cell, epidermis, and endodermis.

2. **Identifying the Relevant Tissue**: The Casparian strip is a structure found in plant roots. It is essential to identify which of the listed tissues is involved in the transport of water and minerals.

3. **Analyzing the Endodermis**: The endodermis is the innermost layer of the cortex in plant roots. It is composed of tightly packed cells that play a crucial role in regulating the flow of water and nutrients.

4. **Recognizing the Structure of the Casparian Strip**: The cells of the endodermis have thickened walls, particularly on their radial and inner sides. These thickened areas are known as the Casparian strips.

5. **Function of the Casparian Strip**: The Casparian strip is impermeable to water and solutes, which means it blocks the passive flow of these materials. This forces water to move through the cytoplasm of the endodermal cells (symplastic pathway) rather than through the spaces between the cells (apoplastic pathway).

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the Casparian strip is present in the endodermis.

**Final Answer**: The Casparian strip is present in the **endodermis**.

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