Question

Cladode and Phyllode (structures) are
A) Functionally similar
B) Structurally Similar
C) Structurally and Functionally Similar
D) With a common embryonic origin

Answer 1

Hint: The branch is also transformed into a structure-like succulent, green, flat or cylindrical or leaf, although leaf-like production services are inexperienced in photosynthesis colouration.

Complete Answer:
- Cladodes (also referred to as cladophylls or phylloclades) are shooting systems in which leaves do not develop; instead, the stems flatten and assume the plant's photosynthetic functions.
- In asparagus, the true leaves are the scales found on the spears of asparagus. If the dense, fleshy asparagus spears continue to grow, in the axils of the scale leaves, smooth, green, leaflike structures called cladodes to develop.
- An outstanding example of convergent evolution or the independent growth of unrelated taxa with the same feature is the occurrence of cladodes in unrelated desert angiosperm families.
- Both cacti (Cactaceae) have cladodes, and many desert members of the families of spurge (Euphorbiaceae) and milkweed (Apocynaceae) have similar vegetative morphologies produced from changing various parts to look and work in the same way. Each of these plant groups has green stems, reduced leaves, and columnar, water-storing protective spines or thorns.

- Phyllodes are modified petioles or leaf roots, which in appearance and function are leaf-like. These are flattened and enlarged in some plants, while the leaf itself becomes diminished or completely vanishes. The phyllode thus serves the leaf's function.
- Euphorbia royleana, cylindrical and opuntia flattened, are some significant examples. In the genus Acacia, they are prevalent, particularly the Australian species, once placed in Acacia sanga. With phyllodinea. Sometimes, partially formed phyllodes bearing reduced leaves can be seen, particularly on younger plants.

Hence the correct answer is option ‘A’.

Note: A phylloclade of one or two internodes is known as a cladode. Phyllode is the flattened rachis and petiole that is converted into a sickle-shaped photosynthesis transformer.