Which of the following is not a stem modification? (NEET 2016 (Phase I))
Answer: (A) Pitcher of Nepenthes. The pitcher of Nepenthes is a modified LEAF (the lamina forms the pitcher trap), not a stem.
- A.Pitcher of Nepenthes✓
- B.Thorns of citrus
- C.Tendrils of cucumber
- D.Flattened structures of Opuntia
Correct Answer
(A) Pitcher of Nepenthes
Solution & Explanation
The pitcher of Nepenthes is a modified LEAF (the lamina forms the pitcher trap), not a stem. In contrast, thorns of Citrus (axillary-bud/stem origin), tendrils of cucumber (axillary-bud stem tendrils) and the flattened green photosynthetic structures of Opuntia (phylloclades) are all stem modifications. Hence the pitcher of Nepenthes is the exception. NCERT Reference: NCERT (Class XI Morphology of Flowering Plants — Modifications of Stem/Leaf, pre-2023 rationalisation text) (Note: this specific content was rationalised out of the 2026-27 NCERT reprint; grounded in pre-2023 NCERT text.)
