Question

Vegetative reproduction in cycas occurs by
(a) Sporophyll
(b) Bulbils
(c) Scaly leaves
(d) Fragmentation

Answer 1

Hint: These vegetative parts develop from the axil of the scaly leaves. They are oval with a broad base narrowing towards the apex and around these several scaly leaves are arranged spirally.

Complete answer:
Cycas is a gymnosperm. Reproduction occurs vegetatively and sexually. Vegetative reproduction occurs through bulbils. The decurrent base of the bulbil is covered with scale leaf. Those leaf bases which were extending down the stem below the insertion are said to be decurrent bases. During the favorable period or condition, they get separated from the parent plants and develop into an independent new plant. Some species of cycads are similar to palm trees, while others look like ferns at first glance.

Additional information:
-The plant takes several years to grow, sexual reproduction takes place after ten years of exclusive vegetative growth which occurs by bulbils arising at the base of the trunk. Cycads can survive in different habitats: tropical rainforests, deserts, swamps, sandy and rocky areas.
-Cycas species are threatened worldwide and most of the species are listed in IUCN Red List.
-Cycas beddomei is the only species of the Cycas listed in Appendix I of CITES. Cycas rumphii and Cycas pectinata have the foremost widespread distribution.

So, the correct answer is, ’Bulbils’.

Note:
-Cycads mostly are slow growing but can survive more than 2000 years in the wild.
- Cycads are considered a status symbol all over the world. Older plants fetch thousands of rands and may substantially increase the worth of your garden over time. So, the price of a cycad plant depends on the age, size of the stem, and species.
-The IUCN stands for The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s. This Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity.