Question

Conjunctive tissue lies between the
(a) Xylem and Phloem
(b) Pericycle and endodermis
(c) Epidermis and cortex
(d) Epidermis and hypodermis

Answer 1

Hint: Conjunctive tissue is surrounded on either of its sides by two different types of complex permanent tissue which are well developed in seed-producing plants. They are the reason that angiosperms are the most successful terrestrial plants in kingdom Plantae.

Complete answer:
Conjunctive tissue is a group of parenchymatous or sclerenchymatous cells which are present between xylem and phloem in roots. Phloem transports organic food inside the body of the plant whereas xylem transports water and sap. The cells of conjunctive tissue are parenchymatous in case of dicot roots while in monocots, they are parenchymatous in younger tissues and become sclerenchymatous in older roots.

Additional Information: Secondary growth takes place in dicot roots with the help of conjunctive tissue. In a dicot root, bundles of xylem and phloem are arranged alternately. They lie on different radii. Such vascular bundles are called radial bundles. Conjunctive parenchyma cells on being meristematic, give rise to small quantities of secondary xylem on its inner side and secondary phloem on its outer side.
In monocot roots, secondary growth is absent. Phloem bundles alternate with the xylem bundles. These two are separated from each other through a narrow strip of conjunctive tissue. The cells of this tissue perform the function of storing food if parenchymatous. They provide mechanical strength on becoming sclerified. They do not take part in secondary growth.

So, the correct answer is 'Xylem and Phloem'.

Note: In both monocot and dicot roots, xylem bundles are exarch i.e protoxylem lies towards the outer side while metaxylem faces inwards. Protoxylem is the first formed (older) xylem while metaxylem are later developed (newer). Primary phloem or xylem are formed from apical meristem during initial phases of a plant’s growth and increase the length of plants. Secondary phloem or xylem are produced by the divisions of the vascular cambium and are responsible for increasing the girth of plants.