In Bougainvillea thorns are the modifications of
Answer: (C) Stem. Thorns of Bougainvillea are modified axillary buds, i.e., stem modifications that serve protection (and discourage browsing).
- A.Stipules
- B.Adventitious root
- C.Stem✓
- D.Leaf
Correct Answer
(C) Stem
Solution & Explanation
Thorns of Bougainvillea are modified axillary buds, i.e., stem modifications that serve protection (and discourage browsing). They are stem-borne woody pointed structures, not modified leaves, stipules, or roots, so the answer is stem. NCERT Reference: Ch 5, p.59, lines 36-37 — "Some stems perform the function of storage of food, support, protection" (Note: this specific content was rationalised out of the 2026-27 NCERT reprint; grounded in pre-2023 NCERT text.) (Note: Correct answer (Stem) is unchanged, but the specific example 'Bougainvillea thorns = modified stem' is NOT in the current reprint; the detailed stem-modification examples were rationalised out. Only the general protective function of stems is retained.)