Unit 3, Lesson 6Root Types, Structures, and

Functions

Functions of the Root System

A. Normally Under the Ground

B. Responsible for Anchoring the Plant

C. Assists in supplying water and nutrients by drawing it up for the plant.

D. Roots take up more space in the soil than does the top part of the plant above ground.

Types of Roots

• Adventitious Roots: roots that appear where roots are not normally expected, such as to help plants climb walls or anchor them in the wind.

Types of Roots

• Taproot: The main roots of a plant, generally grows straight down from the stem. It is a heavy, thick root that does not have many branches.

i. It is often used for human or animal consumption.

ii. Taproot Even: a number of large, equal-sized taproots.

iii. Taproot Swollen: A single, large taproot extending from stem

iv. Taproot Primary: A larger than average root going deeper into the soil.

Types of Roots

• Fibrous Roots: Generally thin, somewhat hair-like, and numerous. – Better able to hold

within soil, giving plant better stability

– Fibrous roots dry out quicker, thus cannot tolerate drought.

PSS.PP.3

Jeopardy

Types of roots Part of a root

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1000

200

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Final Jeopardy

• The type of root system in Carrots

• Known as eel grass this is a picture of its root

• Known as sow thistle this is a picture of it’s root

• Corn Plants have this root system

• This part of the root is labeled 3 here.

• This part of the root is labeled 5 here.

• This part of the root is labeled 11 here.

• This part of the root is labeled 7 here.

• This part of the root is labeled 6 here.