Lecture 10 - Monocots and grass

Question 1

Features of monocots

Answer 1

Three-way symmetry, parallel veins, and scattered vascular bundles

Question 2

Monocot meristems

Answer 2

Only contain apical meristem so can only grow upwards and cannot grow laterally

Question 3

Intercalary meristems

Answer 3

Meristems in between layers of permanent/mature tissue

This allows for more apical growth

Question 4

Phytoliths

Answer 4

Silica structures that are used as both a cost-effective alternative to lignin and a herbivore defence mechanism

Question 5

Animal evolution in response to phytoliths

Answer 5

Teeth and guts to eat and digest the grass

Question 6

Ideal crop harvest

Answer 6

Short plants so harvest can occur quicker, no rust so that crop yields can be maximised, disease-resistant genes for higher yields

Question 7

Plant rust: what is it, what does it do, and what is it caused by?

Answer 7

Plants infected by fungus in the Uridenalis order give them a rusty look

Question 8

Biotechnology used to improve crops nowadays

Answer 8

Disease/pest-resistant genes, golden rice (contains β-carotene to produce vitamin A), better soil,