NEET 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. The purpose of this covering is to help the plant retain water.

Detailed explanation-2: -In some higher plants, the cuticle is a water-impervious protective layer covering the epidermal cells of leaves and other parts and limiting water loss. It consists of cutin, a waxy, water-repellent substance allied to suberin, which is found in the cell walls of corky tissue.

Detailed explanation-3: -The cuticle is a barrier coating the outer surface of epidermal cells of organs of the aerial parts of the plants. It protects against water loss, various abiotic and biotic stress.

Detailed explanation-4: -A cuticle is a non-cellular waxy layer secreted by epidermal cells. It protects the epidermis and reduces water loss.