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Functions and Anatomy of Plant Roots

Roots typically originate from the lower portion of plants and lack nodes. They develop from the radicle of a germinating seed and have three main functions: to anchor the plant, absorb water and minerals from soil, and store food. Internally, roots have zones of meristem, elongation, and maturation, while externally they have a root cap that protects the root tip as it grows and root hairs that absorb water and minerals. Beneficial fungi can also form mycorrhizal associations with roots to help uptake phosphorus.

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Jed Densing
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59 views3 pages

Functions and Anatomy of Plant Roots

Roots typically originate from the lower portion of plants and lack nodes. They develop from the radicle of a germinating seed and have three main functions: to anchor the plant, absorb water and minerals from soil, and store food. Internally, roots have zones of meristem, elongation, and maturation, while externally they have a root cap that protects the root tip as it grows and root hairs that absorb water and minerals. Beneficial fungi can also form mycorrhizal associations with roots to help uptake phosphorus.

Uploaded by

Jed Densing
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOC, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Plant ROOTS Anatomy of a terrestrial plant typically originate from the lower portion of a plant or cutting.

g. have a root cap, but lack nodes *

Describe how roots develop When a seed germinates, the embryos radicle grows out and develops into the first root.*

Function of Roots 3 major Functions: Attachment, anchor plant and hold it upright (a support system) absorb water and minerals from soil and conduct to stem store food propagation

A plant root in action.

Root Structure The meristem The zone of elongation The zone of maturation

Externally, there are two areas of importance: Root cap It consists of cells that are sloughed off as the root grows through the soil. Its function is to protect the root meristem. Task = of forcing its way into solid earth. Root hairs are delicate, elongated epidermal cells *

mycorrhizae Beneficial association is called mycorrhizae (fungus + root). Mycorrhizae = important in facilitating uptake of phosphorous. * extensive system of hyphae and mycelia (thread-like filaments of the

mycorrhizal fungus) *

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