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Answer: Meristematic tissues in plants are localized and dividing cells. Meristematic tissues in plants are made up of actively dividing cells that are usually localized in specific regions like the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristems), the sides of stems and roots (lateral meristems), or between mature tissues (intercalary meristems). These cells are responsible for the growth of the plant. Thus, the correct answer is option D. Localized and dividing cells.
Complete Answer:
Option A states that meristematic tissues are “not limited to certain regions.” This is incorrect because meristematic tissues are in fact restricted to specific areas of the plant where active growth takes place. These areas include the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristems), the edges of stems and roots (lateral meristems), and certain parts of growing stems and leaves (intercalary meristems). Therefore, saying that they are not limited to certain regions is misleading, as their growth activity is concentrated in clearly defined zones.
Option B describes meristematic tissues as “localized and permanent.” While it’s true that these tissues are localized, calling them “permanent” is incorrect. Meristematic tissues are characterized by their ability to continuously divide and produce new cells. They are not permanent in the sense of being mature or fixed like permanent tissues (such as xylem or phloem). Instead, they are dynamic, constantly contributing to the plant’s growth, and thus do not fit the description of being permanent.
Option C claims that meristematic tissues are “growing in volume.” This is misleading because the defining feature of meristematic tissues is not simply an increase in size or volume. Rather, their key function is cell division — they produce new cells through mitosis. While the overall plant may grow in volume as a result of their activity, the meristematic cells themselves are small, have dense cytoplasm, and divide rapidly. So, “growing in volume” does not accurately describe their primary role.
Option D, which describes meristematic tissues as “localized and dividing cells,” is the correct choice. This option accurately captures both key characteristics of meristematic tissue: they are found in specific regions of the plant and are made up of cells that actively divide to support growth. These dividing cells are responsible for producing all other tissues in the plant, making meristematic tissue essential for development and repair.
Hence, the correct option for ‘Meristematic tissues in plants are’ is option D.
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