Thick cuticle reduces this transpiration

Options

A. Cuticular
B. Stomatal
C. Lenticular
D. None of the above

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Transpiration**: Transpiration is the process by which water is lost from the plant, primarily through small openings called stomata. It is essential for nutrient transport and temperature regulation in plants.

2. **Types of Transpiration**: There are three main types of transpiration:
- **Stomatal Transpiration**: This is the most significant type, accounting for about 85-90% of total transpiration. It occurs through the stomata, which are openings on the leaf surface.
- **Cuticular Transpiration**: This occurs through the cuticle, a waxy layer covering the leaves and stems, and accounts for a small percentage of water loss.
- **Lenticular Transpiration**: This occurs through lenticels, which are small openings in the bark of woody plants, and also contributes minimally to total transpiration.

3. **Role of Thick Cuticle**: A thick cuticle serves as a barrier to water loss. In plants that are adapted to dry environments (xerophytes), a thick cuticle helps to minimize transpiration by reducing water loss through the cuticle.

4. **Identifying the Correct Type of Transpiration Reduced by Thick Cuticle**: Since the question specifically mentions "thick cuticle," it implies a reduction in transpiration through the cuticle itself. However, since stomatal transpiration is the predominant form of water loss in plants, a thick cuticle indirectly reduces the overall rate of stomatal transpiration by conserving water.

5. **Conclusion**: Given the options provided, the thick cuticle primarily reduces **stomatal transpiration** because it helps to retain water within the plant, thereby reducing the need for stomata to open frequently.

**Final Answer**: Stomatal transpiration.

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