AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Answer: The waxy covering on plant leaves, young stems, and fruit is called the “cuticle". It is composed of cutin, a wax-like material produced by the plant that is chemically a hydroxy fatty acid.

Detailed explanation-2: -In land plants the cuticle is the outermost layer interacting with the environment. This lipophilic layer comprises the polyester cutin embedded in cuticular wax; and it forms a physical barrier to protect plants from desiccation as well as from diverse biotic and abiotic stresses.

Detailed explanation-3: -The cuticles are protective, hydrophobic, waxy coverings produced by the epidermal cells of leaves, young shoots and all other aerial plant organs. Cuticles minimize water loss and effectively reduce pathogen entry due to their waxy secretion.

Detailed explanation-4: -Cutin is a waxy, water repellant substance, which covers all aerial surfaces of the plant including stem leaves, fruits, etc. It prevents water loss from the plant body.

Detailed explanation-5: -The correct option is D cutin. Cutin is a major component of the cuticle, the waxy layer of the epidermis. Cuticle acts as a protective layer and also prevents water loss through the leaves of the plant.