Morphology of Flowering Plants Quiz

Morphology of Flowering Plants

The morphology of flowering plants, or angiosperms, is characterized by the presence of roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits. These plants are divided into two main systems: the root system and the shoot system.

The Root System

The root system is the part of the plant that grows underground. It is responsible for anchoring the plant, absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, and storing food reserves in the form of starch or sugars. There are three main types of root systems:

1. Taproot system: This system is present in many flowering plants, including mustard, mango, gram, and banyan trees. The primary root develops from the seed's radicle and has secondary and tertiary roots branching off.

2. Fibrous root system: This system is found in monocotyledonous plants, such as rice, wheat, and corn. In this system, a large number of roots originate from the base of the stem.

3. Adventitious root system: This system is found in plants like grass, banyan trees, maize, and sugarcane. Adventitious roots are not derived from the primary root but can develop from any part of the plant, including the stem and even from the leaves.

The Shoot System

The shoot system is the part of the plant that grows above the ground. It consists of the stem, leaves, flowers, and fruits. The stem provides support and transportation of food and water to different parts of the plant.

The Stem

The stem is the main supporting structure of the plant. It can be divided into two parts:

1. Node: The part of the stem that bears the leaves is called the node.
2. Internode: The part of the stem between two nodes is known as the internode.

The Leaves

Leaves are green and are responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. They can be classified into simple and compound leaves, based on the pattern of their leaf blade. Leaves also have modifications for various purposes, such as tendrils for climbing, spines for protection, storage leaves, and insect-catching leaves.

The Flowers

Flowers are the reproductive part of flowering plants. They are arranged on a floral axis, which can be racemose (allowing the main axis to continue growing) or cymose (terminating the main axis). The flower consists of four whorls:

1. Calyx: The outermost whorl, composed of sepals.
2. Corolla: The second whorl, composed of petals.
3. Androecium: The third whorl, composed of stamens.
4. Gynoecium: The innermost whorl, composed of one or more carpels.

The Fruits

Fruits are the characteristic feature of flowering plants. They develop from the ripened or mature ovary and contain the seed. There are various types of fruits, including drupes, berries, and nuts. A fruit can develop with or without fertilization, and is a crucial part of the plant's life cycle.

In summary, the morphology of flowering plants includes the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits. Each part of the plant has a specific function, contributing to the overall growth and reproduction of the plant.