Question

In dicots, transpirational loss of water is minimized to the possible extent by:

• A. Epidermis
• B. Stomata
• C. Cuticle and trichomes
• D. Lenticels

Hint:

Cuticle and trichomes reduce transpiration by limiting direct evaporation and reducing air movement over the leaf surface.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand transpiration.
Transpiration is the loss of water in the form of water vapour from aerial parts of the plant.
Most transpiration occurs through stomata.
However, plants have many adaptations to reduce excessive water loss.

Step 2: Role of cuticle.
The cuticle is a waxy layer present on the epidermis.
It reduces evaporation of water from the plant surface.
A thick cuticle is especially useful in plants growing in dry environments.

Step 3: Role of trichomes.
Trichomes are hair-like structures present on the epidermis.
They reduce air movement near the leaf surface.
This creates a humid layer around the leaf and decreases water loss.

Step 4: Analyze other options.
Epidermis protects the plant body but alone is not the main adaptation for reducing transpiration.
Stomata actually allow transpiration and gas exchange.
Lenticels are involved in gaseous exchange in woody stems and may also allow some water loss.

Step 5: Final conclusion.
Therefore, in dicots, transpirational loss is minimized mainly by \[ \boxed{\text{Cuticle and trichomes}} \]