Question

The special tissue present in the epiphytic roots for absorption of water vapours from air --------.

• A. hydathodes
• B. lenticels
• C. velamen
• D. phloem

Hint:

Epiphytic aerial roots have a spongy dead tissue called velamen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Epiphytes such as orchids hang their aerial roots in the air and cannot draw water from soil.

Step 2: Velamen
The outer layer of the root is a multilayered, spongy tissue of dead cells called velamen.
It is hygroscopic and absorbs water vapour and rain water.

Step 3: Other options
Hydathodes release water in guttation.
Lenticels are openings in bark for gas exchange.
Phloem conducts food.

Final Answer:
Velamen absorbs water vapour in epiphytic roots. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{velamen}} \]