12.4 Roots Pages
Roots
Ta Phrohm temple in Cambodia
Function Anchor plant Absorb water and nutrients Store water and carbohydrates
Types of Roots TaprootFibrous roots
Root hairs Microscopic hair-like outgrowth from an epidermal cell. Increase surface area for absorption
Root cap Thick layer of cells produces a slippery substance allowing root to penetrate soil Meristem
Cortex Parenchyma Stores carbohydrate Water passes through cortex
Endodermis Wrapped with a wax-like substance. Form a barrier called the Casparian strip
Vascular cylinder EudicotMonocot Gymnosperms
Root Specializations 80% of plants have mutualistic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi Also, nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as Rhizobia are found in the root nodules of legumes
Roots continued… Tuberous roots: lateral roots used for storage For example: yam Adventitious root: prop root
Uses of roots Food Medicine Erosion control