Question

Specialised epidermal cells surrounding the guard cells are called
A.Lenticels
B.Complementary cells
C.Subsidiary cells
D.Bulliform cells.

Answer 1

They are defined as a plant epidermal cell that is located next to a guard cell in the stroma of a leaf and differs in structure from other epidermal cells. They are also termed as accessory cells. These cells help to provide protection to stomata.

Complete answer:
To answer this question, first, we should have knowledge about epidermal cells. Epidermal cells consist of several types of cells that make up the epidermis of plants. Although they perform a number of important functions, their primary role is to protect from a variety of harmful factors (environmental stressors) including microbes, chemical compounds and also ultraviolet light among others.

Now, let us find the solution from the option.
A.Lenticels: Lenticels are porous tissues that are used in plant respiration. they are present in the bark. they sometimes also help in transpiration
B.Complementary cells: Complementary cells are defined as a mass of cells in plants, formed from the cork cambium at the position of the lenticels.
C.Subsidiary cells: As defined subsidiary cells & guard cells, both are the modification and part of epidermal cells in which guard cells have chloroplasts which are absent in surroundings subsidiary cells
D.Bulliform cells.: Bulliform cells or motor cells are defined as large, bubble- shaped epidermal cells that are present in groups on the upper surface of the leaves of many monocots.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C)

Note: Subsidiary cells act as boons for guard cell function by providing a mechanical benefit that enables guard cell motility, and/or by working as storage for water and ions. In other situations, subsidiary cells increase certain morphologies (like sunken stomata) that affect gas exchange. Subsidiary cells are not much essential but it's an epidermal cell that works like supplements.