Question

In Opuntia , the process of photosynthesis is carried out by
A. Cladode
B. Phyllode
C. Phylloclade
D. Stipules

Answer 1

Opuntia is commonly called prickly pear, which belongs to the genus Cactaceae in the cactus family. Opuntia is a type of xerophytic plant. The leaves of Opuntia are modified into spine or scales to control the rate of transpiration.

Complete answer:Opuntia is a type of cactus whose body structure is large and in the form of a trunk. The blue-green large pads are called cladodes which bear few spines or even maybe spineless. Cladode is a modified stem that appears more or less like a leaf. Phyllodes are the modified leaf stems or petioles of a plant. They serve as a function of leaves. In some plants, the leaf vanishes as the phyllode becomes wider and flattened. Phyllode is commonly seen in the genus Acacia. Phylloclades are the photosynthetic shoots that are flat in shape mostly green in color. They are considered as the modified branches of the plants. A stipule is seen mostly in the leaves of the flowering plants. They are grown on either side of the leaf base. The word stipules in botany are used to refer to small leaves or leaf parts. In Opuntia , the phylloclade is responsible for regulating the process of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a process carried out by plants that involve the conversion of smaller organic compounds to complex inorganic compounds which serve as a source of energy for the plants to regulate the metabolic activities of their body. Phylloclades are modified branches of leaves that are flattened, fleshy, and green in color. They usually take part in the process of photosynthesis in xerophytic plants and also act as a reserve of water.
So, option C is the correct answer.

Note: Phylloclades are considered as a subset of cladode. Phylloclade and cladode both regulate the function of photosynthesis depending upon the species of plants. Phylloclades are also seen in Bryophyllum.