The type of meristem absent in most of the monocot plants

Options

A. Apical meristems
B. Intercalary meristems
C. Lateral meristems
D. Both 1 and 2

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understand the Types of Meristems**:
- Meristems are regions of undifferentiated cells in plants that are capable of division and growth. There are three main types of meristems: apical, lateral, and intercalary.

2. **Identify the Function of Each Meristem**:
- **Apical Meristem**: Responsible for the primary growth of the plant, allowing it to grow taller and develop new leaves.
- **Intercalary Meristem**: Found at the base of leaves or internodes, it allows for growth in length, especially in grasses.
- **Lateral Meristem**: Responsible for secondary growth, which increases the thickness of the plant stem and roots.

3. **Focus on Monocots**:
- Monocots, such as grasses, typically do not exhibit secondary growth. This means they lack the lateral meristem, which is responsible for this type of growth.

4. **Analyze the Options Given**:
- Option 1: Apical meristem - Present in monocots.
- Option 2: Intercalary meristem - Present in monocots.
- Option 3: Lateral meristem - Absent in most monocots.
- Option 4: Both 1 and 2 - Incorrect, as both are present in monocots.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The type of meristem that is absent in most monocot plants is the lateral meristem.

**Final Answer**: Lateral meristem.

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