Explain in detail anatomical structure of a dicot stem.
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A transverse section of sunflower (dicot) stem shows the following structures:
1. Epidermis: It is a single, outermost layer with multicellular outgrowth called trichomes. A layer of cuticle is usually present towards the outer surface of epidermis.
2. Cortex: Cortex is situated below the epidermis and is usually differentiated into three regions namely, hypodermis, general cortex and endodermis.
a. Hypodermis: It is situated just below the epidermis and is made of 3-5 layers of collenchymatous cells. Intercellular spaces are absent.
b. General cortex: It is made up of several layers of large parenchymatous cells with intercellular spaces.
c. Endodermis: It is an innermost layer of cortex which is made up of barrel shaped cells. It is also called starch sheath, as it is rich in starch grain.
3. Stele: It is differentiated into pericycle, vascular bundles and pith.
a. Pericycle: It is the outermost layer of vascular system situated between the endodermis and vascular bundles. In sunflower, it is multi-layered and also called hard bast.
b. Vascular bundles: Vascular bundles are conjoint, collateral, open, and are arranged in a ring. Each one is composed of xylem, phloem and cambium. Xylem is endarch. A strip of cambium is present between xylem and phloem.
c. Pith: It is situated in the centre of the young stem and is made up of large-sized parenchymatous cells with conspicuous intercellular spaces.
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