Question:

Conduction in hard woods is performed by ________.

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Remember the evolutionary split: Hardwoods (Angiosperms) use Vessels for conduction, whereas Softwoods (Gymnosperms) lack vessels and rely entirely on Tracheids.
  • Tracheids
  • Vessels
  • Tylosis
  • Medullary rays
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation



Step 1: Understanding the Concept:

Wood anatomy distinguishes between hardwoods (angiosperms) and softwoods (gymnosperms) based on the cellular structures responsible for water transport and mechanical support.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

- Hardwoods are angiosperms, which possess a highly specialized, divided labor system in their xylem.
Water conduction is primarily carried out by vessels (tracheae), which are long, hollow tubes made of dead cells joined end-to-end with perforated end walls, allowing rapid water flow. Mechanical support in hardwoods is provided separately by thick-walled fibers.
- Softwoods are gymnosperms, which lack vessels. Instead, they rely on a single cell type called tracheids to perform both water conduction and mechanical support.
- Tyloses are balloon-like outgrowths that block vessels in heartwood, and medullary rays are involved in lateral transport and storage.

Step 3: Final Answer:

In hardwoods, water conduction is performed primarily by vessels.
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