Question

Some plant leaves have extensions from their upper epidermal surfaces known as ________. A)trichomes B)cuticles C)pericycles D)none of the above

Answer 1

The correct answer is option (A) trichomes.

Trichomes are the fine extensions from the epidermal surfaces covering the plant body. They are the result of epidermal cell division. They can be unicellular, multicellular and even glandular. They are characteristically  present on the epidermal surfaces of leaves and roots. They reflect the solar radiation and help in mainitaining the internal temperature and reducing water loss. In roots, they absorb water and minerals and in leaves, they reduce water loss, lower the plant temperature. Plants may use trichomes to detect herbivore attacks as a defense mechanism.