Question

Identify the sclerenchymatous structures (parts) given below related in dicot and monocot stems:
I. Pericycle in young dicot stem
II. Hypodermis in monocot stem
III. Vascular bundle sheath in monocot stem
IV. Endodermis in dicot stem

• A. I, III & IV
• B. I, II & IV
• C. II, III & IV
• D. I, II & III

Hint:

Look for "sheath" and "hypodermis" in monocots — they frequently indicate sclerenchymatous tissue.
Endodermis is usually living parenchyma with Casparian bands, not sclerenchyma.
Pericycle may become sclerenchymatous in young dicots — remember exceptions in developmental anatomy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Sclerenchyma is a strengthening tissue composed of thick-walled dead cells (fibres, sclereids). Evaluate each part:
I. Pericycle in young dicot stems often becomes lignified or sclerenchymatous and contributes to mechanical strength — so it can be sclerenchymatous (Yes).
II. Hypodermis in many monocot stems is formed of sclerenchymatous fibres (Yes).
III. Vascular bundle sheath (the sclerenchymatous bundle sheath) in many monocots is a layer of sclerenchyma surrounding vascular bundles (Yes).
IV. Endodermis in dicot stem is generally a living, parenchymatous layer with Casparian strips (not classically sclerenchyma).
Therefore the sclerenchymatous structures are I, II and III — option (4).