NEETBotanyAnatomy of Flowering Plants
Which of the following combinations of epidermal features correctly describes an isobilateral leaf?
Options
- AStomata are present only on the lower surface and bulliform cells are on the adaxial epidermis.
- BStomata are present on both the surfaces and bulliform cells are on the adaxial epidermis.
- CStomata are present on both the surfaces and bulliform cells are on the abaxial epidermis.
- DStomata are present only on the upper surface and bulliform cells are absent.
Correct answer
B. Stomata are present on both the surfaces and bulliform cells are on the adaxial epidermis.
Step-by-step solution
In an isobilateral (monocotyledonous) leaf, the stomata are present on both the surfaces of the epidermis. This is in contrast to dorsiventral (dicotyledonous) leaves, where stomata are generally more numerous on the lower surface. Additionally, in grasses, certain adaxial epidermal cells along the veins modify themselves into large, empty, colourless cells known as bulliform cells. Therefore, an isobilateral leaf is characterised by stomata on both surfaces and the presence of bulliform cells on the adaxial epider