Question

The lateral roots originate from
A. Endodermal cells
B. Pericycle cells
C. Epiblema
D. Cortical cells below root hairs

Answer 1

Hint: When a typical dicotyledonous root is dissected transversely following structures are observed: epiblema, cortex, endodermis, pericycle, stele, connective tissue and pith. Lateral root development can be seen in the primary roots post seed germination or in some during the development of the radical in the embryo axis.

Complete answer:
There are four types of roots namely: taproot, fibrous roots, and adventitious roots. The cortex is made up of many layers of parenchymatous cells and epiblema is above it being the outermost layer. However, when epilema dies off; the cortex becomes cutinized and becomes exodermis. Cortex is mainly concerned with the storage of food and water. The endodermis is the innermost layer and its cells are barrel-shaped and the radial walls bear casparian bands made of suberin. Lateral roots are developed when the cells of the pericycle begin to divide. The pericycle is the layer of cells that surrounds the central vascular cylinder which is also called a pith. Due to the rapid division of the cells of pericycle, there is a formation of an additional layer of cells that push through the cells of the outer layer of the primary root resulting in the formation of the secondary root meristem. Lateral roots help in anchoring the plants with the soil and helps in the extraction of nutrients necessary for the growth and development of plants.
Hence, the correct answer for the given question is option (B)-Pericycle cells

Note: Many kinds of research suggest that the development of lateral roots is governed by the transport of the plant hormone auxin. It has been found that increasing the auxin concentration in the roots increases the lateral root formation. Some lateral roots have been found to establish symbiotic relationships with bacteria and fungi.