The main function of bulliform cells in grasses is :
- A.to make the leaf impermeable to fungal spores.
- B.to transport water.
- C.to perform photosynthesis.
- D.to minimize water loss during water stress.✓
Correct Answer
(D) to minimize water loss during water stress.
Solution & Explanation
Answer: (D) to minimize water loss during water stress. Solution: Bulliform cells are large, empty, colourless adaxial epidermal cells found along the veins in grass (isobilateral monocot) leaves. When turgid the leaf surface is exposed, but under water stress they become flaccid and make the leaf curl inwards, reducing the exposed surface area and thereby minimising water loss. NCERT Reference: NCERT Class XI, Ch 6 Anatomy of Flowering Plants, p.77, line ~20: "These are called bulliform cells. When the bulliform cells in the leaves have absorbed water and are turgid, the leaf surface is exposed. When they are flaccid due to water stress, they make the leaves curl inwards to minimise water loss."