Identify the incorrect statement regarding endodermis of roots

Options

A. It is the innermost part of cortex
B. It prevents the entry of air from soil into stele
C. It is single layered, barrel shaped cells with casparian bands
D. It helps in leakage of water from stele into cortex

Answer

To identify the incorrect statement regarding the endodermis of roots, we will analyze each statement provided in the question step-by-step.

### Step 1: Understand the Endodermis
The endodermis is the innermost layer of the cortex in plant roots. It plays a crucial role in regulating the movement of water and nutrients into the vascular system of the plant.

### Step 2: Analyze the Statements
1. **Statement 1**: "It is the innermost part of the cortex."
- This statement is **true**. The endodermis is indeed the innermost layer of the cortex.

2. **Statement 2**: "It prevents the entry of air from the soil to the stele."
- This statement is also **true**. The endodermis acts as a barrier to prevent air and other substances from entering the stele (the central part of the root containing the vascular tissue).

3. **Statement 3**: "It is a single layered barrel-shaped cells with casparian bands."
- This statement is **true**. The endodermis consists of a single layer of barrel-shaped cells that contain Casparian strips (bands) which help in regulating the flow of substances.

4. **Statement 4**: "It helps in the leakage of water from the stele into the cortex."
- This statement is **false**. The endodermis does not facilitate the leakage of water from the stele into the cortex; instead, it regulates the flow of water and nutrients into the vascular system, preventing backflow.

### Conclusion
The incorrect statement regarding the endodermis of roots is: **"It helps in the leakage of water from the stele into the cortex."**

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