Interfascicular cambium arise from the cells of Medullary rays

The correct answer is option 'A' - Medullary rays.

Explanation:

What is the interfascicular cambium?

The cambium is a meristematic tissue that is responsible for the secondary growth in plants. It is a thin layer of dividing cells located between the xylem and phloem in the stems and roots of woody plants. The cambium produces new xylem cells towards the inside of the stem and new phloem cells towards the outside, allowing the plant to grow in diameter.

The interfascicular cambium specifically refers to the cambium that arises from the cells of the medullary rays.

What are medullary rays?

Medullary rays are radial sheets of parenchyma cells that extend from the center of the stem or root towards the periphery. They are responsible for radial conduction of water, nutrients, and other substances across the plant. In woody plants, medullary rays are also involved in the lateral transport of carbohydrates and other organic materials.

Formation of interfascicular cambium

1. During the process of secondary growth in plants, the primary meristem cells in the vascular cambium divide to produce secondary meristem cells.
2. The secondary meristematic cells differentiate into different types of cambium, including the interfascicular cambium.
3. The interfascicular cambium arises from the cells of the medullary rays, which are located between the vascular bundles.
4. The cells of the medullary rays undergo periclinal divisions, meaning they divide parallel to the surface of the stem or root, resulting in the formation of a new layer of cambial cells.
5. These newly formed cambial cells then become part of the vascular cambium and contribute to the secondary growth of the plant.

Conclusion:

Interfascicular cambium arises from the cells of medullary rays, which are radial sheets of parenchyma cells located between the vascular bundles. These cells undergo periclinal divisions to form a new layer of cambial cells, which contribute to the secondary growth of the plant.