Question

Endodermis is characterized by the presence of ____.

• A. Pits
• B. Casparian strips
• C. Plasmodesmata
• D. Stomata

Hint:

Think of the endodermis as a "security checkpoint" at a gate. The Casparian strips block the open side paths, forcing all incoming molecules to go straight through the security guards (the living cell protoplast) for inspection!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The endodermis is the innermost cellular layer of the cortex in plant roots, serving as a biological checkpoint regulating selective nutrient transport into the central vascular cylinder.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The tangential and radial walls of the endodermal cells feature a band-like deposition of a water-impermeable, waxy material called suberin. This specialized structural feature is called a Casparian strip. Because water cannot cross this suberin layer passively, it forces water and dissolved minerals to travel through the living protoplast of the cell membrane (symplastic pathway) instead of passing between cells (apoplastic pathway), acting as a natural cellular filter.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The endodermis is characterized by the presence of Casparian strips.