Question

Mangrove plants respire with their_____

• A. Aerial roots
• B. Tap root
• C. Rhizoids
• D. Scales

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve the problem, we need to determine which structure mangrove plants use for respiration.

1. Understanding Mangrove Adaptations:
Mangrove plants grow in swampy and saline coastal regions where the soil is often waterlogged and lacks oxygen. To cope with these conditions, mangroves have evolved specialized structures called aerial roots (also known as pneumatophores).

2. Function of Aerial Roots:
These aerial roots: - Grow upwards from the underground root system
- Emerge above the water or soil surface
- Contain small pores called lenticels to absorb oxygen directly from the atmosphere

3. Elimination of Other Options:
- Tap root: Main root system for anchorage, not respiration.
- Rhizoids: Found in non-vascular plants like mosses, not mangroves.
- Scales: Protective structures, not involved in respiration.

Final Answer:
Mangrove plants respire with their $ \text{Aerial roots} $.