Morphology of Flowering Plants Flashcards: Roots and More

Which structure protects the tender apex of a root as it makes its way through the soil?

What is the primary function of root hairs in plants?

In which type of roots are root hairs absent?

Which region of the root is responsible for the growth in length of the root?

Which group of plants have modified roots that store food?

What is the delicate structure formed by some epidermal cells in the root region to aid in absorption?

What is the function of prop roots in plants?

Which type of roots are present in maize and sugarcane?

What is the function of pneumatophores in plants?

From where does the stem develop in a germinating seed?

Which part of the stem are regions where leaves are born called?

Regions of the Root

The root cap, also called calyptra, is a thimble-like structure that covers the apex of the root and protects it as it grows through the soil.
The region of meristematic activity is above the root cap, where cells divide repeatedly and are very small, thin-walled, and have dense protoplasm.
The region of elongation is where cells undergo rapid elongation and enlargement, responsible for the growth of the root in length.
The region of differentiation or maturation is where cells gradually differentiate and mature, and some epidermal cells form root hairs.
Root hairs are fine, thread-like structures that absorb water and minerals from the soil, and are absent in mycorrhizal roots.

Modifications of Root

Some roots change shape and structure to perform functions other than absorption and conduction of water and minerals.
Examples of modified roots include:
- Tap roots of carrot, turnips, and adventitious roots of sweet potato, which get swollen and store food.
- Prop roots of banyan trees, which provide support.
- Stilt roots of maize and sugarcane, which provide support.
- Pneumatophores or breathing roots of Rhizophora and Sonneratia, which help in respiration.

Stem

The stem is the ascending part of the axis bearing branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits.
The stem develops from the plumule of the embryo of a germinating seed.
The stem has nodes, where leaves are born, and internodes, which are the portions between two nodes.

Learn about the morphology of flowering plants with a focus on the regions of the root, including the structure and function of the root cap and the region of meristematic activity. Understand the characteristics of roots in different types of plants.