Question

In case of dicot roots the cork cambium is derived from
A. Hypodermis
B. Epidermis
C. Pericycle
D. Cortex

Answer 1

Hint: The cork cambium is a lateral meristem and is responsible for the secondary growth that replaces the epidermis in roots and stems. It is found in the woody and many herbaceous dicots, gymnosperms and some monocots.

Complete answer: The cork cambium is formed by dedifferentiation of the outer part of the cortex. As the stem increases in the girth, the epidermis and the cortex are replaced by another meristematic tissue called the cork cambium. In dicot roots, the pericycle strengthens the roots and provides protection for the vascular bundles. In the dicot root, the vascular cambium is completely secondary in origin, and it originates from a portion of the pericycle tissue. The pericycle helps to regulate the formation of the lateral roots by rapidly dividing near the xylem elements of the root. It has been known to often be confused with other parts of the plant. However, its unique ring structure allows it to be more easily identified. The past efforts to isolate such tissue have been successful. The monocot roots rarely branch, but can, and this branch will originate from the pericycle.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

Note: The pericycle cells consist of two types of cells; the parenchyma and the sclerenchyma cells. The non-vascular parenchyma cells from the pericycle cells. These cells are responsible for the storage of the nutrients and short-distance transport of nutrients. The sclerenchyma cells are non-vascular cells, which mean they cannot move water and nutrients and they are responsible for providing support and protection.