Thorns and tendrils are modified versions of which plant part?

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

Answer: (C)

Plant parts can be repurposed for new roles, and thorns and tendrils illustrate how stem tissue can be altered to serve defense and support. Thorns are sharp projections that grow from the stem, giving a protective barrier against herbivores. Tendrils coil around supports to help the plant climb, and they originate from stem-derived structures in many climbing plants. Leaves, roots, or flowers don’t typically form these kinds of protective or climbing organs in the contexts learners encounter, which is why those options don’t fit. For example, rose thorns come from the stem, and grape tendrils function as stem-based climbing organs.