Question
Heterophyllous development in response to environment is an example of which of the following phenomena ?
This question was previously asked in
NEET UG Re-Exam 2026 Question Paper (21-Jun-2026)
The correct answer is
Plasticity
Understanding Heterophylly and Environmental Plasticity
What is Heterophylly?
Heterophylly is the development of different types of leaves on the same plant.
This variation occurs in direct response to environmental factors, such as light, water, or nutrients.
Defining Environmental Plasticity
Environmental plasticity, or phenotypic plasticity, is the ability of a single genotype to produce different physical characteristics (phenotypes) when exposed to different environmental conditions.
It allows organisms to adapt their traits to suit their surroundings without changing their underlying genetic makeup.
Heterophylly as an Example of Plasticity
The occurrence of heterophylly is a prime example of phenotypic plasticity.
A plant's genetic potential allows it to modify its leaf development based on environmental signals, optimizing its survival and function.
Evaluating Other Options
- Dedifferentiation: This involves cells losing their specialization and reverting to an immature state. It's crucial for processes like regeneration but doesn't directly explain varied leaf forms due to the environment.
- Redifferentiation: This is the process where cells regain specialized functions after dedifferentiation. It's a subsequent step, not the overall phenomenon of environmental response.
- Elasticity: This typically refers to the ability of a tissue to deform and return to its original state. It is not related to developmental changes in response to environmental conditions.
Therefore, heterophyllous development in response to the environment directly demonstrates plasticity.
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