Which one dies first when a ring of bark is removed

Options

A. Shoot
B. Root
C. None
D. Both shoot and root die simultaneously.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Girdling**: Girdling is the process of removing a ring of bark from a tree. This action disrupts the flow of nutrients and water within the plant.

2. **Role of Bark**: The bark contains phloem tissue, which is responsible for the transport of sugars produced in the leaves to other parts of the plant, including the roots.

3. **Impact on Roots**: When the bark is removed, the phloem is damaged, preventing the sugars from reaching the roots. Without these sugars, the roots cannot perform their functions effectively and will start to starve.

4. **Absorption and Translocation**: The roots absorb water and minerals from the soil and send them upwards to the shoot. However, the roots rely on the sugars transported from the leaves for energy.

5. **Order of Death**: Since the roots are deprived of the necessary sugars first, they will die before the shoot. The shoot will eventually die as well, but it is the roots that are affected first due to the lack of sugar supply.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, when a ring of bark is removed, the roots die first.

**Final Answer**: The roots die first when a ring of bark is removed.

---