Biology: Morphology of Flowering Plants - Regions of Root

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.