Question

In Nepenthes, the pitcher is a modified
(a) Whole leaf
(b) Leaf apex
(c) Lamina
(d) Petiole

Answer 1

Hint: Nepenthes is a genus of carnivorous plants. They are also known as pitcher plants or monkey cups. The genus Nepenthes belongs to the monotypic family Nepenthaceae.

Complete Answer:
The genus Nepenthes comprises about 170 species and many hybrid species. These hybrid species may be natural or cultivated. Nepenthes plants usually contain a shallow root system. They also consist of a prostrate shrub. This prostrate shrub has a length of upto 15 meters. The diameter of this prostrate shrub is less than 1 centimeter in size but the prostrate shrub can be thicker in a few species of Nepenthes. The stem of these plants give rise to sword-shaped leaves that are alternately arranged along the entire leaf margin.
The tendril, which is an extension of the midrib provides aid in climbing for some species. These tendrils protrude from the tip of the leaves. The pitcher of these plants forms at the end of these tendrils. The pitcher is initially a small bud but it gradually develops and expands to form a tube-shaped trap. The pitcher of the plant is a type of modified lamina.

Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Lamina.

Note:
The pitcher contains a viscous or watery fluid produced by the plant. This fluid is used to trap and drown its prey. The trapping efficiency of the fluid present in the pitcher is retained and remains to be high even if diluted.