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Question #47563
The Question
Underground stems of Solanum tuberosum and Zingiber officinale are naturally modified for food storage. Suppose a targeted metabolic inhibitor completely blocks amyloplast function and starch sequestration in the ground tissue of these plants during early vegetative growth. Assuming the plants survive the current favorable season, which of the following represents the most significant functional consequence of this inhibition?
Options
- A.
They will fail to act as organs of perennation, effectively reducing the functional life cycle of these plants to that of an annual.
- B.
The axillary buds of the modified stems will differentiate into aerial tendrils to maximize photosynthetic yield before the onset of unfavorable conditions.
- C.
The plants will compensate by redirecting starch synthesis to adventitious roots, functionally mimicking the perennation strategy of Ipomoea batatas.
- D.
The underground stems will lose their nodes, internodes, and scale leaves, becoming morphologically indistinguishable from a tap root system.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Classification System Nuances|Endosperm Development Sequencing|Solanaceae Floral Formula
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize that potato and ginger are 'underground stem modifications for storage' but overlook the critical NCERT ecological function: 'organs of perennation'.
The trap lies in assuming plants can spontaneously develop alternative storage organs (like sweet potato roots) or alter their fundamental anatomy (losing nodes) when stressed.
This question tests the direct ecological consequence (loss of perennial status) of a physiological failure (lack of starch storage).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Plant Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Classification System Nuances |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |