Question

Bulliform cells are responsible for ______.

Options

• Increased photosynthesis in monocots

• Providing large spaces for storage of sugars

• Inward curling of leaves in monocots

• Protecting the plant from salt stress

Answer 1

Bulliform cells are responsible for inward curling of leaves in monocots.

Explanation:

The rolling and unrolling of leaves in response to variations in water supply is caused by bulliform cells. Usually, grasses and other monocots contain these specialized cells. The bulliform cells lose turgor pressure when the plant is under water stress, which causes the leaves to roll up. This minimizes water loss through transpiration and decreases the surface area exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, the bulliform cells restore turgor pressure when water supply rises, which causes the leaves to unroll and enhance photosynthetic efficiency.