Question

Identify the vegetative propagule ‘M’ in the following diagram :

• A. Rhizome
• B. Runner
• C. Bulbil
• D. Offset

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The vegetative propagule 'M' in the diagram can be identified by analyzing the given options:

A. Runner - A slender, prostrate stem that grows along the ground surface and produces new plants at nodes (e.g., in strawberry).

B. Offset - A short runner that grows horizontally along the ground and produces new plants at its tip (e.g., in water hyacinth).

C. Rhizome - An underground stem that grows horizontally and produces roots and shoots from its nodes (e.g., in ginger).

D. Bulbil - A small bulb-like structure that develops in the place of a flower or in leaf axils, serving as a vegetative propagule (e.g., in Agave).

The correct answer is (D) Offset.

Answer 2

Offsets are short, thick horizontal stems that grow along the ground and produce new plants at their tips, commonly seen in aquatic plants like water hyacinth. While bulbils (A) are aerial vegetative buds, rhizomes (C) are underground stems, and runners (D) are slender creeping stems that root at nodes. The description matches offsets which are characteristic of plants that propagate vegetatively in aquatic environments, forming genetically identical clones of the parent plant.

The correct answer is (B) Offset.