AIIMS 2018 Biology Meristems MCQ Question

Intercalary meristems are responsible for the elongation of bamboo and grasses, as they are located at the nodes and internodes, allowing for growth in length after the plant has been cut or grazed. In contrast, apical meristems (option A) are found at the tips of roots and shoots, promoting vertical growth, while lateral meristems (option B) contribute to the thickness of stems and roots through secondary growth. Secondary meristems (option C), such as vascular cambium and cork cambium, are involved in the formation of secondary tissues and do not directly facilitate elongation in grasses and bamboo.