Question

1. Compare and contrast the distribution of the following plant tissues as they relate to mesomorphic, xeromorphic and hydromorphic leaves:

(a)     palisade and spongy mesophyll cells

(b)     vascular bundles

(c)     stomata

Answer 1

Xeromorphic leaves: Are adapted to dry habitats

(a)     palisade and spongy mesophyll cells- several layers of palisade cells between the epidermis and the spongy parenchyma.

(b)     vascular bundles

(c)     stomata- sunken stomata present

Mesomorphic leaves: Require abundant available soil water and relatively humid atmosphere.

(a)     palisade and spongy mesophyll cells

(b)     vascular bundles

(c)     stomata

Hydromorphic leaves: Depends on the large supply of water or grow partly or completely submerged in water.

(a)     palisade and spongy mesophyll cells- spongy mesophyll cells are smaller than palisade

(b)     vascular bundles- greatly reduced if not absent.

(c)     stomata- absent in leaves