1. Roots, Stems, and Leaves
Notes for Biology 2410* at Utah State University
*Plants and fungi: ecosystem essentials

2. Life before reproduction
Reproduction is essential to a species’ success
Plants have to grow to the point that they are mature enough, and healthy enough, to reproduce.
Roots, stems, and leaves are the workhorse structures of plants.

3. Roots Obtain water and dissolved nutrients from soil and mycorrhyzae
Anchor plant
Are point of contact for mycorrhizal fungi

4. Types of roots Primary root - from embryo
Aerial root
Primary root - from embryo
Secondary roots –from primary root
Adventitious roots –from leaf nodes
May be modified for support or defense or …
Adventitous roots

5. Root structures Tap roots – from primary root
Fibrous roots – from adventitious or secondary roots
Tuberous roots – thickened ROOTS
Tubers are thickened stems
Tuberous
root
Stem, not root

6. Rhizomes: underground stems, not roots
Rhizomes have nodes and reduced leaves
Rhizomes often root at nodes
Rhizomes enable a plant to spread and reproduce
Rhizomes are most common in mesic and wet habitats