Thorns and tendrils are modified what?

• A. Leaves
• B. Stems
• C. Roots
• D. Flowers

Answer: (B)

Thorns and tendrils come from modifying the shoot system, not from leaves, roots, or flowers. A thorn is a sharp projection that develops from the stem itself and carries stem tissue, acting like a hardened extension of the shoot for defense. Tendrils are slender, coilable extensions that arise from the stem and use their growth as a climbing aid to grasp supports. While some tendrils can arise from leaves in other plants, in many cases they are stem derivatives, which is why they’re classified with modified stems. This demonstrates how plants can repurpose parts of the stem to gain new functions like protection and support.