The Question is from neet-botany , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

Which specific characteristic of *Sphagnum* enables it to hold a significant amount of water, far exceeding its own weight?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Plant anatomy and water retention in mosses
 **Related Topics**:  Cell structure, hyaline cells, water absorption, *Sphagnum* ecology
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of plant cell structure and function.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the specific characteristic of *Sphagnum* moss that allows it to hold a large amount of water.
  The options describe different structural features of the plant.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Analyze each option to determine its role in water retention.
  Reasoning: We need to identify the structure that provides the capacity for significant water storage.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable.
 2. Evaluate the function of hyaline cells in *Sphagnum*.
  Working: Hyaline cells are large, empty cells found in *Sphagnum* leaves. Their empty nature allows them to act as reservoirs for water, enabling the moss to hold a large volume of water.
  Key Point: The large size and empty nature of hyaline cells are crucial for water storage.
 3. Compare the water-holding capacity of hyaline cells to other options.
  Result:  Hyaline cells are the primary reason *Sphagnum* can hold far more water than its weight.  Closely packed leaves contribute to some water retention, but not to the extent of hyaline cells. Rhizoids are root-like structures primarily involved in anchorage, not water storage. Thickened cell walls provide structural support, not significant water storage capacity.
  Verification: The known water-holding capacity of *Sphagnum* is directly linked to the presence and structure of its hyaline cells.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Closely packed leaves contribute to some water retention, but not the primary reason for the exceptionally high water-holding capacity.
B :x: Rhizoids are root-like structures primarily involved in anchorage, not water storage.
C ✓: Presence of large, empty hyaline cells is the key characteristic responsible for *Sphagnum*'s exceptional water-holding capacity.
D :x: Thickened cell walls provide structural support, not significant water storage capacity.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing the function of hyaline cells with other cell types in *Sphagnum* or other plants: Focus on the unique characteristics of hyaline cells (large and empty).
  2.Overlooking the scale of water retention:  The question emphasizes the capacity to hold water far exceeding its own weight, highlighting the significance of hyaline cells.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember that hyaline cells are specialized for water storage in *Sphagnum*.
  2.Associate the term “hyaline” with “clear” or “transparent,” hinting at their empty nature.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Closely packed leaves

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Presence of rhizoids

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "Presence of large, empty hyaline cells"

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Thickened cell walls

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