Question

Highlight the importance of roots in plants?

Answer 1

Hint: Roots are the underground parts of most of the plants. They are useful in absorbing water and minerals from the soil. It also holds the plant firmly in the soil. Some roots are adapted for storage which stores starch. For example- sweet potato.

Complete answer:
The chief function of the root is absorption of water and minerals for the plants is already known to us. The other importance of roots are as follows-
• It serves as an anchor that holds the plant upright firmly on the soil.
• Roots of some plants are helpful in respiration. They are called the pneumatophores which are seen in the mangroves.
• Roots of some plants like jasmine are reproductive in nature.
• Roots of the plants serve as storage of the prepared starch by the plants. For example- sweet potato.
• The roots bind the soil firmly in the soil. This helps in preventing soil erosion and surface run off by water.
• The roots are the important constituent of the water cycle. It helps in bringing the surface water to the atmosphere.

Note: Roots are of two types-
• Tap root- In this there is one long central root and several fine filaments arise from them. These kinds of roots are found in big trees, desert plants. These roots go deep inside the soil in search of nutrients and moisture. Example cactus.
• Fibrous roots- This kind of roots are seen in the grass family. These are thin moderately branching roots from the stem.