Question

Parkinsonia is a good example of this?
A. Phylloclade
B. Parachute mechanism
C. Phyllode
D. Winged fruits

Answer 1

In some plants, the petiole changes and it looks like a leaf due to environmental reasons and is known as phyllode. It also has the potential of photosynthesis and functions as foliage. Main stems like branches and flower stalks can also become phyllodes. The Mexican palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeata) also has phyllodes.

Complete answer:
Option A- Phylloclade
Phylloclades and cladodes are flattened, photosynthetic shoots that are commonly considered to be modified branches. The two terms are used either oppositely or interchangeably by different authors. Phyllocladus, a genus of conifer, is named after these structures.
Option B- Parachute mechanism
Parachute fruits are scattered by the wind. The slightest blow of wind catches the detailed crown of plumose hairs, putting forward and propelling the seed into the air like a parachute. This is the traditional mechanism of dispersal for the Eurasian dandelion (Taraxacum officinale).
Option C- Phyllode
Phyllodes are modified petioles or leaf stems. They are leaf-like in appearance and function. In some plants, these become flattened and widened, while the leaf itself becomes diminished or vanishes altogether. Thus the phyllode succeeds to serve the purpose of the leaf.
Option D- Winged fruits
These are the fruits that either have wings along their length and do not aid in wind dispersal or to fruits that have well-developed wings and aid in wind dispersal. Note that both winged fruits and winged seeds support wind dispersal.

Therefore, the correct option is C- Phyllode

Note: Parkinsonia is also known as Cercidium. It is a genus of flowering plants in the pea family, Fabaceae. It includes 12 species that are native to semi-desert regions of Africa and the Americas. The name of the genus acclaims English apothecary and botanist John Parkinson.