Question

Modified stem present in Gladiolus is:
A) Bulb
B) Rhizome
C) Corm
D) Bulbil

Answer 1

Hint:
Gladiolus has a swollen underground stem. It is used for nutrient storage purposes. It is a perennial plant that can be grown from little structures called cormels. It has scaly, membranous leaves.

Complete answer:
Bulb is a modified stem that has fleshy leaf-like structures, usually globe-shaped. It helps to overcome unfavorable conditions. When the plant is in a dormant stage, the fleshy leaves help in the storage of food. These are found enclosing the bud with overlapped leaves. Example: Onion
Rhizomes are underground stems, lying parallel to the ground. These, too, help in the storage of food. It has nodes and internodes present. It gives rise to roots and shoots contents. Example: Ginger.
Corms are also underground stems but positioned vertically. These also provide help in the storage of nutrients. Roots grow from the base of the rounded stem. It has scaly leaves. Example: Crocus
Bulbils are bulbous structures, formed between the leaves and the stem. It arises from the axillary bud. These can be planted to propagate new plants. These too help in food storage. Example: bulbils of Agave
Thus, on the basis of structural, morphological, and functional characteristics, the correct answer is: Corms

Option ‘C’ is correct

Note:
It is important to note the difference between corms and bulbs. Corms have swollen stems and scaly leaves, wherein the stems act as storage units. On the contrary, bulbs are short conical stems with fleshy leaves which act as a storage unit.