Question

Identify the plants from the following which do not exhibit Kranz anatomy:
A. Aloe
B. Zea mays
C. Agave
D. Opuntia
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B and D only
• B. A, B and C only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

Remember this simple rule: Kranz anatomy is the structural hallmark of C₄ plants. CAM plants and C₃ plants lack it. Identifying the plant's photosynthetic pathway is the key to answering such questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Kranz anatomy is a specialized leaf structure found in C₄ plants. It is characterized by having two distinct types of photosynthetic cells: the mesophyll cells and the bundle sheath cells arranged in a wreath-like ('Kranz') manner around the vascular bundles. The question asks to identify plants that {lack} this anatomy. C₃ plants and CAM plants do not have Kranz anatomy.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's determine the photosynthetic pathway of each plant:

A. {Aloe:} A succulent plant that uses CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) photosynthesis to conserve water. It does not have Kranz anatomy.
B. {Zea mays (Maize/Corn):} A classic example of a C₄ plant. It exhibits Kranz anatomy.
C. {Agave:} A succulent plant that uses CAM photosynthesis. It does not have Kranz anatomy.
D. {Opuntia (Cactus):} A succulent plant that uses CAM photosynthesis. It does not have Kranz anatomy.
The plants that do not exhibit Kranz anatomy are {Aloe} (A), {Agave} (C), and {Opuntia} (D).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct combination of plants lacking Kranz anatomy is A, C, and D.