Question

tape roots and its types ​

Answer 1

Answer:

• Taproot is one of the two essential root systems where the primary root gives out branches of secondary and tertiary roots growing downwards as the primary root tapers towards the end.

• The Taproot system is the root system found in most dicotyledonous plants and is characterized by the presence of a primary or dominant root.
• The radicle of the seed develops to form the primary root during the germination of the seed.
• However, in some plants, the taproot developed during the embryonic stage is replaced by a fibrous root during the later stage.
• In other plants with a persistent tap root, the radicle keeps on growing while developing lateral roots from the main root.
• The shape of the taproot might differ from one plant to another, but the common shapes include; conical, fusiform, and napiform roots.
• The conical root is widest at the top tapering steadily towards the bottom. It is seen in plants like a carrot.
• The fusiform root is widest in the middle and is tapering towards the top and the bottom. It is seen in plants like a radish.
• Napiform root has a very wide top and tappers suddenly into a tail at the bottom. It is seen in plants like a turnip.
• The main or primary root might give off secondary roots which then branches out to form the tertiary root. The tertiary roots might even divide to form rootlets.
• The division of the primary root into further branches increases the area for water and mineral absorption from the soil.
• The ability to branch out and cover more areas also enables taproot to anchor the plant more tightly and firmly to the soil.
• As the taproot grows straight down, it can penetrate deep into the soil and obtain more nutrients and minerals.
• In some plants like carrot, the taproot is modified for food storage which is then consumed as a vegetable.
• It is assumed that the taproot system evolved from the fibrous root in evolutionary history.
• Besides, plants with a taproot system usually have leaves with reticulate venation.

Some examples of plants that have a tap root system include carrot, mustard, radish, turnip, beetroot, parsley, coriander, etc.