The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Leaf venation refers to the arrangement of veins and veinlets in the lamina (leaf blade). Veins provide rigidity to the leaf blade and act as channels for the transport of water, minerals, and food materials. There are two primary types of venation: reticulate and parallel.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The specific pattern or design formed by the arrangement of veins and veinlets in a leaf is technically defined as leaf venation.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: When the veins and veinlets form a net-like structure on both sides of the midrib, the venation is termed reticulate venation, not parallel venation. This type of venation is generally characteristic of dicotyledonous plants (e.g., rose, hibiscus).
- Statement 3 is Correct: When the veins run parallel to one another within the lamina, the venation is termed parallel venation. This type of venation is generally characteristic of monocotyledonous plants (e.g., grass, banana, wheat).
Key Takeaway: The primary distinction in leaf venation is between reticulate (net-like, common in dicots) and parallel (veins run side-by-side, common in monocots).