Correct option is C
The correct answer is (c) Abscisic acid. Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant hormone that inhibits growth and promotes dormancy. It plays a crucial role in stress responses, such as drought conditions, by closing the stomata to prevent water loss. It also helps in the abscission (shedding) of leaves, fruits, and flowers. Unlike other hormones that promote growth and cell division, ABA acts as a growth inhibitor and is vital for regulating plant development under adverse conditions.
Information Booster: ● Abscisic acid is often referred to as the "stress hormone" of plants. ● It induces seed dormancy, allowing seeds to withstand unfavorable conditions until they are suitable for germination. ● ABA helps in the closing of stomata to reduce water loss during drought. ● It is produced in the roots and leaves when the plant is under stress. ● Unlike other growth-promoting hormones like auxins and gibberellins, ABA primarily functions to inhibit growth. ● It also regulates the abscission of leaves, flowers, and fruits in response to environmental stress.