Types of root changes: structure and meaning

The types of root changes that exist in nature are known to everyone. Their examples are the roots of carrots and beets, radishes and radishes. But such metamorphosis is also found in exotic orchids, and in giant rafflesia, which is a well-known parasite.

Types of root changes: biology reveals secrets

The root is an underground organ of the plant that performs vital functions in the body. This is primarily the fixation of the plant in the soil and the absorption and conduct of water with nutrients. But in some plants, this organ significantly modifies anatomically and functionally. In this case, he plays a somewhat different role in the plant.

Roots

Kinds of changes in plant roots are primarily represented by root crops. Their people have long used to eat, because they are rich in vitamins and minerals. Parsley, parsnips, sugar beet, rutabaga, turnip ... These plants are a storehouse of useful substances. And the whole point is that their main root thickens, being a storage tank. Roots are usually biennial plants. In the first year they do not give seeds. And they have to endure the autumn and winter to achieve the necessary level of development. In the second year, after flowering, the seeds form in the fruits, with the help of which the generative multiplication of these plants takes place.

Root tubers

Types of changes in roots, which are lateral and subordinate, have dahlia, buttercup and cleavage. They perform the same function - they store the necessary substances. In addition, they participate in vegetative propagation. In the scientific literature one can often find one more name - root cones. Jerusalem artichoke, or earth pear, they are used for food. Their root cones contain mineral salts, vitamins, carbohydrates and pectins. But the most valuable substance is inulin. It is necessary for people who suffer from a serious illness of the endocrine system - diabetes mellitus.

Unusual modifications

Kinds of changes in roots, which are not so common in nature, are quite functional. Remember how ivy can easily curl even on the most vertical surface. This is due to the presence of clinging roots. And tropical orchids do not need soil at all. They are able to absorb moisture directly from the atmosphere. This is due to the presence of air roots. Plants with a massive shoot helps to maintain balance another type of modification. These are stilted roots. Vivid examples of such plants are corn and pandanus.

And in the giant roots of the roots of the supports of tropical animals, you can easily build real homes. For example, in the ficus-banyan they hang directly from the lush crown from a height of several meters. Parasitic plants use sucker roots. With their help, water is sucked from another body.

The types of root changes that we have covered in this article serve to perform additional functions. This is a stock of substances, vegetative reproduction, support and gas exchange.