Question

Piliferous layer in the root is
A. Epidermis
B. Pericycle
C. Cortex
D. Endodermis

Answer 1

Hint: The piliferous layer in the root is also known as rhizodermis or epiblema. It is generally found in both dicotyledonous root and monocotyledonous root. The main function of this layer is to uptake water and other nutrients.

Complete answer: The piliferous layer is a part of the epidermis of the root which contains root hairs. This layer is present over a region of 410 mm after the root tip. Apart from this, the piliferous layer is shed away to expose the hypodermis underneath. It also functions in the uptake of water and other nutrients. The epidermis of the root always has a single layer in thickness and is never covered by the cuticle. Hence, this layer can be easily peeled off the root and is known as piliferous. The piliferous layer or the root-hair zone is also known as rhizodermis or epiblema. It is the region where the epidermis of a root is present at a short distance from the root tip which produces ample root hairs and also functions in the process of uptake of water and nutrients.
So, the right answer is option A.
Additional Information:
In a vascular plant, a root hair is the tubular outgrowth of the hair-forming cell present on the epidermis of the root of the plant. These are the lateral extensions of one cell, and are not visible to the naked eye and even under the light microscope. The primary function of the root hairs is to uptake water and mineral nutrients present in the soil.

Note: The term epidermis means "over-skin". It is a single layer of cells that covers the leaves, flowers, roots, and stems of the plant. The epidermis forms a boundary in the middle of the plant and the external environment. It also serves several other functions such as protection from water loss, regulation of gas exchange, secretion of metabolic compounds, and absorb water and mineral nutrients especially in roots.