Pneumatophores are specialised _______ in hydrophytes.

roots

The correct answer is Option (2) –roots

Pneumatophores are specialized roots in hydrophytes.

Hydrophytes are plants adapted to aquatic or waterlogged environments. Pneumatophores are one of the adaptations these plants develop to thrive in such conditions. Pneumatophores are specialized roots that grow above the surface of water or waterlogged soil, allowing the plant to obtain oxygen from the air, which may be lacking in the submerged environment.

These roots have pores called lenticels that facilitate the exchange of gases between the root tissues and the atmosphere. By absorbing oxygen from the air through their pneumatophores, hydrophytes can supplement the oxygen obtained through their submerged roots, enhancing their ability to carry out aerobic respiration in waterlogged conditions.

Therefore, pneumatophores play a crucial role in the adaptation of hydrophytes to their aquatic or waterlogged habitats by enabling them to access essential oxygen for their survival.