Velamen found in epiphytic roots is meant for
(a) absorption of water from host
(b) absorption of water from air
(c) perennation
(d) protection

Options

A. absorption of water from host
B. absorption of water from air
C. perennation
D. protection

Answer

To solve the question regarding the function of velamen found in epiphytic roots, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Term "Velamen":**
- Velamen is defined as a spongy multiple epidermis that covers the roots of epiphytic plants.

2. **Identify the Context:**
- Epiphytic plants, such as orchids and some species of Clevia, grow on other plants but do not derive nutrients from them. Instead, they rely on the surrounding environment for their sustenance.

3. **Function of Velamen:**
- The primary function of velamen is to absorb moisture and nutrients from the atmosphere. This is crucial for epiphytic plants as they often grow in environments where water is not readily available from the soil.

4. **Evaluate the Options:**
- (a) Absorption of water from host: Incorrect, as epiphytic plants do not absorb water from their host plants.
- (b) Absorption of water from air: Correct, as velamen is specifically adapted to absorb moisture from the air.
- (c) Perennation: Incorrect, as this refers to survival strategies during unfavorable conditions, which is not the primary function of velamen.
- (d) Protection: While velamen does provide some protection, its main role is moisture absorption.

5. **Conclusion:**
- The correct answer is (b) absorption of water from air.