Question:94: Initiation of lateral roots and vascular cambium during secondary growth takes place in cells of :
(1) Epiblema
(2) Cortex
(3) Endodermis
(4) Pericycle
Answer: Option (4)
Explanation:
The pericycle is a layer of cells located just inside the endodermis in roots.
It is a living, meristematic tissue that retains the ability to divide even after the root has matured.
Lateral roots originate from the pericycle cells, ensuring that they are directly connected with the vascular tissues of the primary root.
During secondary growth, the vascular cambium is partly formed from the pericycle, especially in dicot roots.
Thus, the initiation of both lateral roots and vascular cambium during secondary growth occurs in the pericycle.
Therefore, the correct option is pericycle.