Which of the following statements is/are correct about Apical Meristem?
(A) It is present at the growing tips of stems and roots and increases the length of the stem and the root.
(B) Due to this, the girth of the stem or root increases.
(C) It is seen in some plants and located near the node.
Choose the correct option from the codes given below:

Correct option is B

The correct answer is: (b) Only (A)

Explanation:

• Apical Meristem is a type of meristematic tissue found at the growing tips of stems and roots. It is responsible for the elongation of the plant, which increases the length of the stem and root. This makes Statement (A) correct.

• However, Statement (B) is incorrect because the increase in girth (thickness) of the stem or root is due to lateral meristems (such as the vascular cambium), not the apical meristem.

• Statement (C) is also incorrect because the apical meristem is located at the tips of the plant parts, not near the node.

Information Booster:
• Apical meristem is primarily responsible for primary growth, which results in the elongation of roots and shoots.
• It is composed of undifferentiated cells that divide to give rise to cells that mature into various plant tissues.
• The apical meristem is distinct from lateral meristems, which contribute to secondary growth, increasing girth.
• Apical meristems can be found in both dicots and monocots.
• The apical meristem at the tip of the root is protected by the root cap, while in stems, it is protected by young leaves or bud scales.