Question

Secretory structures present in the pith and cortex of Cycas stem are

• A. Resin canals
• B. Mucilage canals
• C. Gum canals
• D. Laticiferous ducts

Hint:

Laticiferous ducts are found in many plants, including Cycas, and are involved in the secretion and storage of latex.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the anatomy of Cycas.
Cycas plants are known for having laticiferous ducts, which are secretory structures present in the pith and cortex of their stem. These ducts are specialized for storing latex, a milky fluid found in many plants. Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (4) Laticiferous ducts.

Answer 2

Cycas is a gymnosperm well known for certain distinctive secretory canals running through its pith and cortex. Let's evaluate each option against what these structures actually secrete.

1. Resin canals: Resin canals are characteristic of conifers such as Pinus, where they run through the wood and cortex secreting resin; they are not the structures typically described for Cycas.
2. Mucilage canals: Cycas stems are well known for containing mucilage canals running through both the pith and the cortex, secreting a thick, slimy mucilage. This is the textbook secretory feature associated with Cycas anatomy.
3. Gum canals: Gum-secreting canals or ducts are associated with certain angiosperms (like some Acacia species) rather than being the defining pith/cortex feature of Cycas.
4. Laticiferous ducts: These secrete latex and are typical of plants like Ficus, Papaver, and Hevea; Cycas, being a gymnosperm without latex production, does not have laticiferous ducts.

Based on Cycas's well-documented anatomy, the pith and cortex are traversed specifically by mucilage-secreting canals.

Therefore, the correct answer is Mucilage canals.