RBSE Solutions Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Indian Botanical Gardens and Herbarium

RBSE Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Multiple Choice Objective Questions

Question 1. Which famous doctor is given credit to established Botanical garden in India?
(a) Maharshi Parashar
(b) Shushrut
(c) Jivak Komar Britiya
(d) Charaka
Answer: (c) Jivak Komar Britiya
In simple words: Jivak Komar Britiya is the well-known doctor who is credited with starting botanical gardens in India. He helped to set up these special gardens for plants.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember to associate famous personalities with their specific contributions in science to easily recall answers.

Question 2. Botanical garden are useful for the study of:
(a) For acclimatization and adaptation of plants
(b) Control and eradication of weeds
(c) Pollution control
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: Botanical gardens help us learn about plants in many ways, like how they get used to new places, how to stop unwanted plants, and even how to manage pollution. They are helpful for all these reasons.

🎯 Exam Tip: When multiple benefits are listed, always consider if 'All of the options' is the most comprehensive answer, especially for broad topics.

RBSE Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1. What is Herbarium?
Answer: A herbarium is a collection of dried plant specimens that are carefully arranged and stored. It also includes information about these plants and is used for scientific study. A herbarium acts like a library of plants, helping scientists learn about different plant species. Always ensure plant specimens are properly dried to prevent decay and preserve their original features.
In simple words: A herbarium is a collection of dried plants and their data, used for science.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining scientific terms, include both the primary characteristic (collection of dried specimens) and its purpose (scientific study) for a complete answer.

Question 2. Write the name of instrument used for study of plant taxonomy.
Answer: A plant press is an instrument used by botanists to flatten and dry field samples. This allows them to be easily stored and filed in a herbarium. It helps in preparing specimens for detailed scientific study and classification. Proper use ensures plant structures are preserved well for future examination.
In simple words: The plant press is an instrument used to flatten and dry plant samples for scientific study.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the name of the instrument and briefly mention its primary function for full marks in such questions.

Question 4. What is standard size of a plant press?
Answer: A plant press is typically 12" x 18" (which is 30 x 45 cm) in size. This specific size is standard to ensure that biological specimens can be properly prepared and stored in a herbarium. Having a standard size helps in uniform filing of specimens.
In simple words: A plant press is usually 12 inches by 18 inches (30 x 45 cm).

🎯 Exam Tip: Always include both imperial and metric units when available for standard sizes to show complete understanding.

Question 5. What is the standard size of a Herbarium sheet?
Answer: Dried plant specimens are mounted on herbarium sheets that have a standard size of 11.50" x 16.50" (which is 28.75 x 41.25 cm). This uniform size helps in organizing and filing the many plant specimens within a herbarium efficiently. Using standard sheets ensures easy access and comparison.
In simple words: A herbarium sheet is typically 11.50 inches by 16.50 inches (28.75 x 41.25 cm).

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the precise dimensions for herbarium sheets as it's a fundamental detail in botany practicals.

Question 6. Define botanical gardens.
Answer: A botanical garden is a special garden where many different types of plants are collected, grown, and shown to the public. Each plant is carefully labeled with its scientific name. These gardens are managed by experts for education and research, often including libraries, herbaria, and labs. They serve as important living collections for studying plant life.
In simple words: Botanical gardens are places that collect and grow many kinds of plants, labeled with their scientific names, for learning and research.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining botanical gardens, highlight their dual purpose: display/cultivation and scientific/educational research, along with the botanical naming.

Question 7. What is Herbarium?
Answer: A herbarium (plural: herbaria) is a collection of preserved (dried) plant specimens arranged in a systematic way. This collection, along with its associated data, is used for scientific study and reference. It helps botanists identify plants and understand plant distribution. Drying and pressing specimens helps maintain their form and details for a long time.
In simple words: A herbarium is a collection of dried, organized plant samples and their information, used for science.

🎯 Exam Tip: Notice that this is a repeated question. Ensure your answer is consistent with previous definitions, emphasizing key terms like 'systematically arranged' and 'scientific study'.

Question 8. How plant specimen is protected from fungal infection and attack of insects?
Answer: Plant specimens are protected from fungal infections and insect attacks in a few ways. They are sprayed with fungicides, typically a 2% mercuric chloride solution, to prevent fungus. Additionally, the cupboards and areas where herbarium sheets are kept are protected from insects by spraying DDT and placing naphthalene balls. Once a year, all herbarium sheets are fumigated using \( \text{CS}_2 \) (Carbon disulphide) in a sealed room or box. This annual fumigation is critical for long-term preservation against biological damage.
In simple words: Plant specimens are protected by spraying chemicals like fungicides and DDT, using naphthalene balls, and fumigating with \( \text{CS}_2 \) every year to stop fungi and insects.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning specific chemicals and methods for preservation is key to answering questions about specimen protection.

Question 10. Write the names of two famous botanical gardens of world.
Answer:

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing famous locations, always include the country and the year of establishment for complete historical context.

Question 11. When, where and which botanical garden was founded by American botanist Henary Shaw?
Answer: The modern idea of a botanical garden became known about 150 years ago. Henry Shaw, an American botanist, made botanical gardens more useful. He established the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, USA, in 1859. This garden played a big role in botanical research and public education. The Missouri Botanical Garden is still a leading institution today.
In simple words: American botanist Henry Shaw founded the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, USA, in 1859.

🎯 Exam Tip: For specific historical questions, ensure you include the 'who,' 'what,' 'where,' and 'when' to provide a comprehensive answer.

Question 12. What is the role of Digger to collect the plant samples?
Answer: A digger is a tool used to dig into the earth to carefully remove the root or tuber parts of a plant from the soil. This is important for collecting complete plant samples for scientific study in a herbarium. It helps ensure the entire plant specimen, including its underground parts, is collected. Different types of diggers exist for various soil conditions.
In simple words: A digger is a tool to dig up plant roots or tubers from the soil for collecting samples.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the instrument's name and its specific function, especially when it targets underground plant parts.

Question 13. Name the gas which is used for fumigation of plant specimens once in year?
Answer: To protect herbarium sheets from insects, DDT and naphthalene balls are sprayed in almirahs and segments where they are kept. Once a year, all herbarium sheets are fumigated with \( \text{CS}_2 \) (Carbon disulphide) gas in a sealed room or box. This annual fumigation helps keep the specimens free from pests. This chemical treatment is crucial for long-term preservation against biological damage.
In simple words: Carbon disulphide (\( \text{CS}_2 \)) gas is used once a year to fumigate plant specimens and protect them from insects.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific chemical (Carbon disulphide) and the frequency (once a year) for accurate recall of fumigation procedures.

Question 15. What do you mean by filing?
Answer: Filing is the process of keeping dried, pressed, and identified plant specimens in an organized and scientific manner. They are arranged according to approved classification methods. This systematic arrangement makes it easy to access and study the specimens for research purposes. Proper filing ensures the longevity and usability of the herbarium collection.
In simple words: Filing means organizing dried and identified plant samples scientifically based on how they are classified.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining 'filing' in a botanical context, emphasize 'systematic arrangement' and 'approved classification' as key components.

RBSE Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Short Answer Questions

Question 1. What are the importance's of Botanical Gardens?
Answer: Botanical gardens are very important for many reasons, including:
1. They help in detailed scientific research about plant structure and parts.
2. They are useful for comparing and studying how plants are classified.
3. They help in classifying and naming plants correctly.
4. They provide plant material for lab studies in areas like cell biology, plant functions, tissue culture, and plant breeding. This promotes new discoveries in plant science.
5. Many botanical gardens help plants get used to different natural conditions.
6. They are useful in Horticulture (gardening) to improve the quality of plants for human use, such as fruit-bearing plants and medicinal plants.
7. Botanical gardens are beautiful, offering tree shade and pleasant flower scents.
8. They allow the growth of glasshouse plants (greenhouse plants) from different climates for research.
9. They are like outdoor labs for studying botany and plants, used for research and investigation.
10. They contain living plant collections used for both basic and applied plant studies.
11. Plants in botanical gardens are used not just for decoration, but also for horticulture and plant breeding.
12. They are helpful for studying how plants are introduced to new areas and adapt, controlling and removing weeds, and using plants to control pollution.
In simple words: Botanical gardens are important because they help us study plants, classify them, do research, improve plants for human use, control pollution, and teach us about plants in general.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions about 'importance,' try to categorize benefits (e.g., research, education, practical use) to ensure a comprehensive answer.

Question 3. Explain various steps and technique to make a Herbarium in detail.
Answer: The process of preparing a herbarium sheet involves several key steps:
* **Mounting Specimens:** The dried plant specimens are carefully mounted onto standard herbarium sheets, which measure 11.50" x 16.50" (28.75 x 41.25 cm). These sheets are thick, strong card sheets designed to keep the specimens safe for a long time.
* **Information:** The name of the herbarium is printed at the top of the sheet, and the bottom right corner contains all necessary information about the specimen.
* **Pasting:** Mounting is the process of pasting the dried specimens onto the sheet. To do this, a tray of 12" x 18" is used to mix glue or fevicol with mercuric chloride. The dried specimen is dipped into this mixture from one side so the glue sticks to it, and then it is properly pasted onto the sheet. After being dipped in the glue, it is carefully placed.
* **Handling Bulky Parts:** For bulky plant parts like dry fruits, seeds, or cones, they are dried without pressing and placed into small envelopes called fragment packets. Succulent plants are not mounted on herbarium sheets but are preserved in a 4% formalin or FAA (Formalin Acetic Alcohol) solution. This careful handling ensures all types of specimens are stored appropriately.
In simple words: Making a herbarium sheet involves mounting dried plants on special sheets, adding information, using glue to paste them, and storing larger or watery parts separately in special ways.

🎯 Exam Tip: Break down complex processes into clear, sequential steps (like mounting, information, pasting) and highlight special considerations for different specimen types.

Question 4. Explain tools of making Herbarium in detail.
Answer: Several tools are essential for making a herbarium:
* **Digger:** This instrument is used to dig into the earth and carefully remove the root or tuber parts of a plant from the soil. It ensures that the entire plant specimen, including its underground parts, is collected.
* **Secateur:** This is a tool specifically designed to cut the branches of woody plants. It allows for clean cuts when collecting specimens from shrubs and trees.
* **Vasculum:** An aluminum container used for collecting plant parts. Its inner wall is lined with cork sheets to prevent the collected plants from drying out too quickly before they can be pressed. This helps keep specimens fresh during field trips.
* **Plant Press:** This equipment is used by botanists to flatten and dry field samples, allowing for easy storage. A professional plant press is made to a standard maximum size (12" x 18" or 30 x 45 cm) for biological specimens to be filed in a herbarium. It consists of two strong outer boards with straps that are tightened to exert pressure. Fresh plant samples are placed between layers of paper, often with absorbent paper and corrugated cardboard to aid drying and prevent decay. Layers of sponge material can also be used to prevent squashing delicate parts like fruits. Older presses may use screws for pressure, which can limit the thickness of specimens.
* **Field Diary or Note Book:** A person collects detailed information about plants during field trips, including their habitat and habits. This specific diary assigns a unique number to each collected specimen and records all necessary information on a dedicated page. This diary is crucial for accurate specimen identification and research.
* **Polythene bags:** Various types of polythene bags are used to collect fruits, flowers, or other delicate parts of plants. They protect the samples during transport.
* **Forceps:** This is a small instrument used to pluck off leaves or other small parts of plants delicately.
* **Hand Lens:** This tool is used to see small plant parts up close, which helps in identifying fine details.
* **Rubber bands:** These are used to keep all the collected items safe and organized in one place.
* **Blotting papers and newspapers:** These are used to dry the leaves and other plant parts, absorbing moisture quickly. These materials are essential for removing moisture from specimens.
In simple words: Tools for making a herbarium include a digger for roots, secateurs for branches, a vasculum to keep plants fresh, a plant press to flatten them, a field diary to record information, polythene bags for collection, forceps for delicate parts, a hand lens for small details, rubber bands for organization, and blotting paper for drying.

🎯 Exam Tip: For questions asking to explain tools, list each tool, describe its specific function, and mention how it aids in herbarium preparation.

Question 5. What is the importance of plant taxonomy?
Answer: Plant taxonomy is important because it helps us to organize and group plants into different categories. This is done based on their similarities and differences. This systematic grouping makes it easier to study, identify, and understand the relationships between various plant species. Without taxonomy, it would be very hard to keep track of all the different plants in the world.
In simple words: Plant taxonomy helps group plants by their similarities and differences, making them easier to study and identify.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing the importance of taxonomy, always emphasize 'classification,' 'identification,' and 'understanding relationships' as key benefits.

Question 6. What is the importance of botanical gardens in plant taxonomy?
Answer: Botanical gardens are very important for plant taxonomy because:
* They provide living plant specimens for accurate scientific research on plant structure and classification.
* They are useful for comparing different plants and for studying their classification.
* They help in classifying and naming plants correctly, providing a living reference collection. Botanical gardens maintain labeled collections crucial for taxonomic studies.
In simple words: Botanical gardens help plant taxonomy by providing living plants for research, comparing species, and correctly classifying them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight how botanical gardens serve as living laboratories for taxonomic studies, offering direct observation and comparison of diverse plant species.

Question 7. Give a list of famous botanical gardens of India and their year of establishment.
Answer: Here is a list of famous botanical gardens in India and their establishment years:

🎯 Exam Tip: For listing famous gardens, include their full name, location, and establishment year to provide complete information.

Question 8. Give a list of five famous botanical gardens of world and their year of establishment.
Answer: Here is a list of five famous botanical gardens in the world and their establishment years:

🎯 Exam Tip: Listing both the name and the establishment year for world-famous botanical gardens demonstrates a good grasp of the subject's history.

Question 9. What will you do to protect plant specimen on Herbarium sheet from fungal infection or bacterial infection?
Answer: To protect herbarium sheets from fungal and bacterial infections, several measures are taken. First, the mounted specimens are sprayed with fungicides, often a 2% solution of mercuric chloride, for preservation. Additionally, the compartments where herbaria are kept are protected from insects by spraying DDT and using naphthalene balls. Once a year, all herbarium sheets are fumigated using \( \text{CS}_2 \) (carbon disulphide) in a closed room or box. This systematic approach ensures the specimens remain intact for scientific study.
In simple words: We protect herbarium specimens by spraying them with fungicides, using DDT and naphthalene balls against insects, and fumigating yearly with \( \text{CS}_2 \).

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning both chemical treatments (fungicides, DDT, CS2) and physical methods (naphthalene balls, closed environment) provides a comprehensive answer.

Question 10. What is the role of Herbarium in modern taxonomy? Explain.
Answer: Herbaria play a crucial role in modern taxonomy:
* A herbarium is used for identifying plants, serving as a reference collection. This makes it easier to compare unknown plants with known samples.
* Each specimen, along with its description on the herbarium sheet, acts as a stored record of knowledge. This is valuable for future research in plant biology. Herbaria offer essential information and plant specimens for better understanding of species.
In simple words: Herbaria help identify plants and act as a library of plant knowledge for future research and study in taxonomy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the herbarium's function as a reference library for identification and a repository of data for research in taxonomy.

Question 12. Give a list of any five famous Herbaria of India and number of specimens.
Answer: Here is a list of five famous herbaria in India along with the approximate number of specimens they hold:

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing famous institutions, providing their location and the scale of their collection (number of specimens) enhances the answer's detail.

Question 14. Explain importance of field diary during plants sample collection from field.
Answer: A field diary or notebook is very important when collecting plant samples from the field. It is used to record as much information as possible about the plants, including their habitat and characteristics. Each collected specimen is given a specific number, and all necessary details are recorded on a page in the diary. This helps in accurately identifying the plants later and linking the physical specimen to its original collection context. It is a key tool for systematic botanical study.
In simple words: A field diary helps record plant details like habitat and unique numbers during collection, which is vital for later identification and study.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the field diary's role in linking collected specimens with detailed environmental and observational data for accurate scientific records.

Question 15. What is the method adopted for drying plant specimens in hilly areas?
Answer: In hilly or rainy areas, where natural drying can be difficult, electric heaters are used to dry plant specimens. This method ensures that the specimens dry quickly and completely, preventing fungal growth and decay. Quick and effective drying is crucial for preserving the plant's natural characteristics. Electric heaters provide controlled warmth for efficient drying.
In simple words: In hilly or rainy places, electric heaters are used to quickly dry plant specimens and stop them from getting moldy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the specific adaptation for challenging environments (electric heaters) and the primary reason for it (preventing fungal growth/decay).

Question 16. Explain Filing technique in maintenance of Herbarium sheet.
Answer: The filing technique involves keeping dried, pressed, and identified plant specimens in a sequential, scientific, and approved classification method. All specimens of a particular species are placed in thin paper folds, known as specimen covers. These covers are then grouped together in thicker paper folders, called genus covers. Finally, these genus covers are put into the herbarium cupboards in their correct position according to a well-known system of classification. This systematic storage ensures easy retrieval and long-term preservation of the collection.
In simple words: Filing means organizing dried plant specimens into thin paper covers for each species, grouping them into thicker folders by genus, and then storing them in herbarium cupboards using a set classification system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail the hierarchical organization of specimens—from individual covers to genus folders and systematic cupboard placement—to fully explain the filing technique.

RBSE Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Essay Type Questions

Question 1. What do you mean by Herbarium? Explain main Herbaria of India.
Answer:
**Definition of Herbarium:**
* A herbarium (plural: herbaria) is a collection of preserved (dried) plant specimens arranged systematically. This collection, along with its associated data, is used for scientific study and reference. These collections are vital for biodiversity research.
* Herbaria are used for identifying plants and provide a reference point for comparing unknown plants. This identification is crucial for taxonomic studies.
* Each specimen, with its description on the herbarium sheet, creates a storehouse of knowledge for future research in plant biology. Herbaria offer vital information for understanding plant specimens.
* Studying plants through diagrams and photographs can be less engaging. However, herbaria make learning about plants more interesting and practical.
* Sometimes, herbaria help compare and study plants from a specific area, especially when their specimens are systematically organized on herbarium sheets.
* They are useful for keeping specimens of newly discovered plant types.
* Herbaria help in studying the flora (plants) of different places, providing regional botanical data.
* They help understand the ecology of various places.
* Overall, herbaria are helpful for identifying plants and their characteristics.
**Technique of Plant Collection:**
1. To ensure a good quality collection for a herbarium, knowing the correct and best methods is essential.
2. By using proper collection methods, plant specimens can be preserved for a long time and correctly identified.
3. Plant specimens should be collected during different stages of growth and reproduction from various geographical areas.
4. A specimen should include all parts of the plant, such as the root, stem, leaves, inflorescence, flower, and fruit. A complete specimen provides more information.
5. Collecting all parts of a herbaceous plant is easy, but for large woody trees and shrubs, a herbarium sheet can be made by collecting a twig with either flowers or fruit.
6. Specimens should be collected from healthy plants. Flowers should be collected at the end of their blooming phase, and young or unripe fruits can also be collected.
7. It is good practice to visit an area two or three times to collect specimens of plants at different stages of growth. This provides a comprehensive view of the plant's life cycle.
In simple words: A herbarium is an organized collection of dried plant samples used for scientific study and identification. It helps in research, education, and understanding plant diversity. The collection involves specific methods like gathering all plant parts at different growth stages and from various locations.

🎯 Exam Tip: For an essay question, divide your answer into clear sections (definition, importance, collection techniques) and provide detailed, organized points for each. Ensure all parts of the question are addressed.

Question 2. What do you mean by Botanical garden? Explain historic importance of botanical gardens.
Answer: A botanical garden is a special type of garden dedicated to collecting, cultivating, and displaying a wide variety of plants, all carefully labeled with their scientific names. These gardens are managed by trained staff and institutions primarily for education and research purposes. They often include additional facilities like libraries, herbaria (collections of dried plants), laboratories, and museums, which are all vital to their work. Botanical gardens are sometimes referred to as 'outdoor laboratories' due to their extensive use for plant research and investigation.
Historically, the development of botanical gardens was slow. However, from ancient times, humans began cultivating plants in gardens to ensure easy access to necessary resources such as food, medicine, and other useful plants. Many ornamental and flowering plants were grown near temples in places like India, Egypt, and China, making them readily available for various needs. Over time, these gardens evolved to play a crucial role in plant research and understanding, showcasing the progression of human knowledge about the plant kingdom.
In simple words: A botanical garden is a place where many kinds of plants are grown and studied, each with its scientific name. These gardens have been important since ancient times, helping people to get food and medicines from plants easily, and serving as centers for learning about nature.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining botanical gardens, highlight their dual purpose of collection/display and scientific research/education. For historical importance, mention their role in providing essential resources like food and medicine since ancient times.

Question 3. What do you mean by plant collection techniques? Explain various tools used for plant collection with labeled diagram.
Answer: Plant collection techniques refer to the systematic methods used to gather, preserve, and document plant specimens for scientific study, typically for a herbarium. A herbarium is a collection of dried, pressed plant specimens, along with important associated data, arranged in a systematic way for scientific research and reference.
The following techniques are essential for proper plant collection:
1. To ensure a high-quality collection of specimens for a herbarium, it is crucial to understand and follow the correct methods.
2. Adopting proper methods helps preserve plant specimens for a long time and allows for accurate identification.
3. Plant specimens should be collected at different stages of their growth and reproductive cycles, and from various geographical areas.
4. A complete specimen should ideally include all parts of the plant, such as the root, stem, leaves, flowers, and fruits.
5. Collecting all parts is straightforward for small herbaceous plants. However, for large woody trees and shrubs, a twig with flowers or fruit can be collected to represent the species on the herbarium sheet.
6. Specimens should be collected from healthy plants. Floral specimens are best gathered at the end of their flowering phase, and young or unripe fruits can also be collected.
7. It is beneficial to visit a collection area two or three times to obtain specimens of plants at different stages of their development, capturing more complete information about the plant's life cycle.

Here are various tools used for plant collection:
• Digger: This instrument is used to dig into the earth to carefully extract the root or tuber parts of a plant from the soil.
• Secateur: This is a cutting tool designed specifically for trimming or cutting branches from woody plants. A diagram of a secateur (Fig. 24.4) typically shows sharp, curved blades similar to strong scissors.
• Vasculum: An aluminum container used to store collected plant parts temporarily. Its inner wall is lined with cork sheets to prevent the collected plants from drying out before they can be pressed.
• Plant Press: This equipment is used by botanists to flatten and dry plant samples collected from the field, making them easier to store. A standard professional plant press typically measures 12" x 18" (30 x 45 cm), which is the maximum size for biological specimens to be filed in a specific herbarium. A plant press (Fig. 24.6) usually consists of two strong outer boards with straps that are tightened to apply pressure, with plant samples placed between layers of paper.
• Polythene bags: Various types of polythene bags are used to collect delicate parts like fruits, inflorescences, or other sections of a plant, protecting them during transport.
• Forceps: A small, pincer-like instrument used for plucking off leaves or other small plant parts precisely.
• Hand Lens: A magnifying glass used to examine small plant parts in greater detail in the field.
• Rubber bands: Used to secure and organize collected items, keeping them safe and together.
• Blotting papers and newspapers: Used to help absorb moisture and dry leaves and other plant parts, essential for preservation.
• Field Diary or Note Book: A vital tool for recording maximum information about plants during collection, including their habitat, habits, and specific details. Each collected specimen is assigned a unique number, and all relevant information is diligently recorded in this diary.
In simple words: Plant collection techniques are ways to gather and prepare plant samples for scientific study. Important tools include a digger for roots, a secateur for branches, a vasculum to keep plants fresh, and a plant press to flatten them. Other tools like bags, forceps, and a field diary are also used to collect and record details about the plants.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing plant collection, clearly define a herbarium and then list both the systematic steps for collection and the specific tools, explaining each tool's function. While direct diagrams are often drawn by students, ensuring comprehensive textual explanation covers the "labeled diagram" aspect.

Question 4. Explain method to prepare Herbarium sheet with labeled diagram.
Answer: A herbarium sheet preparation involves several steps to create a systematically arranged collection of preserved (dried) plant specimens and associated data for scientific study. It acts as a storehouse of plant information for future reference.

The method of preparing a herbarium sheet includes the following stages:

Technique of Plant Collection:
1. To ensure a high-quality collection of specimens, understanding the correct plant collection method is crucial.
2. Using proper methods helps preserve plant specimens for a long time and allows for accurate identification.
3. Plant specimens should be collected at various stages of their growth and reproductive cycles, from different geographical areas.
4. A complete specimen should ideally include all parts of the plant, such as the root, stem, leaves, inflorescence (flower cluster), flower, and fruit.
5. Collecting all parts is easier for small herbaceous plants. However, for large woody trees and shrubs, a twig with flowers or fruit can be collected to represent the species on the herbarium sheet.
6. Specimens should be collected from healthy plants. Floral specimens are best gathered at the end of their flowering phase, and young or unripe fruits can also be collected.
7. It is advisable to visit a collection area two or three times to gather specimens of plants at different growth stages.

Drying of Specimens:
• Plant presses, containing the specimens, are typically kept in a well-lit area to aid in drying.
• Specimens are carefully spread out between folds of old newspapers or blotting sheets, ensuring that no parts overlap to allow for even drying.
• Larger specimens may be folded into 'V' or 'W' shapes to fit the press.
• Blotting paper or newspaper should be changed every 24 hours. This practice is vital for proper drying and to prevent fungal growth, which can damage the specimen.
• The blotting sheets with the plant specimen are placed in the plant press for drying. After 24 to 48 hours, the press is opened to check progress and replace papers.
• In rainy or hilly areas where natural drying is slow, electric heaters are now used to dry plant specimens more effectively.

Preparation of Herbarium Sheet:
• Dried specimens are then mounted onto herbarium sheets of a standard size, typically 11.50" x 16.50" (28.75 x 41.25 cm). These sheets are made of thick, strong card material, ensuring the specimens remain safe and preserved for a long time.
• For mounting, a tray measuring 12" x 18" is used. A mixture of glue or Fevicol is combined with Mercuric chloride, which also acts as a fungicide.
• The dried specimen is carefully dipped into this mixture from one side, allowing the adhesive to coat it.
• The specimen is then properly pasted onto the herbarium sheet.
• Bulky plant parts, such as dry fruits, seeds, and cones, are dried without pressing. Instead, they are placed in small envelopes called fragment packets, which are then attached to the sheet. Succulent plants, which retain a lot of water, are not mounted on standard herbarium sheets but are typically collected and preserved in 4% formalin or FAA (Formalin Acetic Alcohol) solutions.

Labeling of the Herbarium Sheet:
• A label, usually 3" x 5" (7.5 x 12.5 cm) in size, is pasted or printed on the lower right-hand corner of the herbarium sheet. This label is crucial for identification and scientific reference.
• The label must include the following information:
1. Name of the institute where the herbarium is located (e.g., Herbarium, Department of Botany, College of Science, Udaipur).
2. Locality from where the specimen was collected (e.g., Flora of Udaipur district or Flora of Rajasthan).
3. Name of the plant's family.
4. Botanical name of the plant.
5. Specific locality (detailed location).
6. Date of collection.
7. Altitude (height above sea level).
8. Habit (e.g., tree, shrub, herb).
9. Complete information about the area where the specimen was collected.
10. Name of the collector.
11. Collector's field number (unique identification for the specimen).
12. Local or common name of the plant and other relevant information gathered from local people in the area.

Filing of Herbarium Sheet or Storage:
• This is the final process of organizing and maintaining the herbarium. It involves keeping the properly dried, pressed, and identified plant specimens in a sequential, scientific, and approved classification method, which is known as Filing.
• All specimens belonging to the same species are placed inside thin paper folds, called specimen covers. These are then grouped together in thicker paper folders, known as genus covers, and finally incorporated into herbarium cupboards according to a well-known system of classification, such as the Bentham and Hooker system used in England and India. A typical herbarium almirah (Fig. 24.7) has labeled segments for organized storage.
In simple words: To prepare a herbarium sheet, first, collect healthy plant parts correctly from different areas. Then, dry the specimens using a plant press, changing blotting papers often. Next, mount the dried plant onto a special sheet using glue, adding a small packet for bulky parts. Finally, label the sheet with all important details like the plant's name, where it was found, and by whom. These sheets are then organized and stored in special cabinets.

🎯 Exam Tip: For a comprehensive answer on herbarium sheet preparation, clearly explain the steps from collection and drying to mounting, labeling, and proper filing. Emphasize the importance of accurate data and scientific classification, mentioning key tools as part of the method explanation.

Question 5. Explain three botanical gardens of India.
Answer: The three important botanical gardens in India are:
1. Royal Indian Botanical Garden, Shibpur, Kolkata:
This is a very famous botanical garden in India and Asia. It was started in 1787 by Colonel Robert Kyd. In 2009, it was renamed Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden to honor a famous Indian plant scientist. This garden shows many rare plants and has over 12,000 different kinds of trees, shrubs, palms, grasses, and orchids spread over 109 hectares. A big attraction is a 200-year-old Banyan tree, which is 100 feet tall and covers a large area.
2. National Botanic Garden, Lucknow:
This garden was established by the Nawabs of Oudh between 1789 and 1814 as a royal garden. It was used to find specific medicines, like Sentonim from the Artemisia maritima plant. It has a great collection of palms, ferns, orchids, cacti, and many types of rose plants. Today, it is known as the National Botanical Research Institute in Lucknow.
3. Lloyd Botanical Garden, Darjeeling:
Also called the Darjeeling Botanical Garden, it is in Darjeeling, West Bengal. William Lloyd gave 40 acres of land for this garden to the Indian Government in 1878. This garden protects many evergreen and deciduous plant species, like Tree Ferns and Ginko biloba. It also has a collection of 150 species of cacti and succulents in its Conservatory. The garden is known for its rare native orchids from the Singalila Ridge area.
In simple words: India has several important botanical gardens. Three key ones are the Royal Indian Botanical Garden in Kolkata, known for its vast collection and ancient Banyan tree; the National Botanic Garden in Lucknow, which started as a royal garden for medicinal plants; and the Lloyd Botanical Garden in Darjeeling, famous for preserving many plant species and its orchid collection.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to explain multiple items, pick the most well-known or distinct ones. For each garden, remember its key features like establishment year, significant plants, or unique historical facts.

Question 6. Explain method of maintenance for Herbarium sheet in detail.
Answer: The detailed method of maintenance for a herbarium sheet involves several steps to ensure the specimens are preserved and organized for scientific study.
Definition of Herbarium:
A herbarium is a systematically arranged collection of preserved (dried) plant specimens and their related data, used for scientific study. It serves as a permanent reference collection.
Objectives of Herbarium:

• It is used for identifying plants and helps in nomenclature and classification studies.
• Without knowing species, genus, family, and characteristics, plants cannot be categorized.
• It provides information about plant habitats and characteristics, which aids in classification.
• It makes plant study more interesting than just using diagrams or photos.
• Herbaria help compare and study plants from an area by systematically arranging specimens.
• They are useful for keeping specimens of newly discovered plant types.
• They help in studying the plant life of different places.
• The ecology of different places can be understood through a herbarium.
• They are helpful for identifying plants.

• For drying, the plant press is usually kept in a well-lit area.
• Specimens are spread out between old newspapers or blotting sheets, making sure parts do not overlap.
• Larger specimens may be folded into 'V' or 'W' shapes.
• Blotting paper or newspapers should be changed every 24 hours to ensure proper drying and prevent fungal growth.
• After 24 to 48 hours, the plant press is opened.
• Electric heaters are now used in rainy or hilly areas to dry specimens.

• The process of keeping dried, pressed, and identified plant specimens in a sequential, scientific, and approved classification method is called Filing.
• All specimens of a species are placed in thin paper folds (specimen covers). These are then kept together in thicker paper folders (genus covers) and finally put into the herbarium cupboards according to a recognized classification system.

• Mounted specimens are sprayed with fungicides, such as a 2% solution of mercuric chloride, for long-term preservation.
• The almirahs and compartments where herbaria are kept are protected from insects by spraying DDT and using naphthalene balls.
• Once a year, all herbarium sheets are fumigated with \( \text{CS}_2 \) (Carbon disulphide) in a closed room or box to prevent pests.

• Herbarium serves as the foundation for plant studies, including identification, nomenclature, and classification.
• It helps in categorizing plants by providing information about species, genus, family, and characteristics, which would otherwise be impossible to determine accurately.
• It is a key source for information on plant habitat and characteristics, essential for accurate plant classification.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining maintenance, cover all stages from drying to final storage and pest control. Use clear headings for each step and mention the purpose of each method for comprehensive marks.

RBSE Class 11 Biology Chapter 24 Additional Questions

Question 1. Who established botanical gardens in India 550 BC before Aristotle?
Answer: Jivak Komar Britiy established botanical gardens in India during that early period. This shows that the concept of botanical gardens has ancient roots in India, even before the Greek philosopher Aristotle's time.
In simple words: A person named Jivak Komar Britiy started botanical gardens in India around 550 BC, even before Aristotle.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering historical questions, focus on accurately recalling names and specific time periods to score well.

Question 2. What other name is given to botanical gardens?
Answer: Botanical gardens are also known as outdoor laboratories. This name highlights their role as places where scientific study and research on plants take place in a natural, open-air setting.
In simple words: Botanical gardens are sometimes called outdoor laboratories because scientists study plants there.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember alternative names for key terms as they often appear in multiple-choice questions.

Question 3. Where is Shalimar and Nishat Garden located?
Answer: The Shalimar and Nishat Gardens are both located in Srinagar. These beautiful Mughal gardens are famous historical landmarks in the region.
In simple words: Shalimar and Nishat Gardens are in Srinagar.

🎯 Exam Tip: For location-based questions, simply stating the correct city or region is usually sufficient.

Question 4. What is the new name of Royal Indian Botanical Garden, Shibpur, Kolkata?
Answer: The new name for the Royal Indian Botanical Garden, Shibpur, Kolkata, is Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden. This change honors a famous Indian plant physiologist and physicist.
In simple words: The Royal Indian Botanical Garden in Kolkata is now called the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing historical and updated names of important institutions can be crucial for factual recall questions.

Question 5. What are the objectives of Herbarium?
Answer: Herbaria serve several important objectives for plant study and research:

• They are used for identifying different plant species.
• Each specimen, along with its description, acts as a valuable record of information for future reference and research on plants.
• Herbaria make the study of plants more engaging and easier to learn, compared to just using diagrams or photos.
• They help in comparing and studying plants from specific areas, especially when specimens are organized well.
• Herbaria are useful for keeping samples of newly found or described plant types.
• They assist in studying the plant life (flora) of various places.
• Understanding the ecology of different regions becomes clearer with the help of a herbarium.
• They are very helpful in identifying plants accurately.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about objectives, provide a comprehensive list of uses or goals. Organize your points clearly, perhaps using bullet points, to ensure full marks.