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 metamorphoses are found in exotic orchids, and in giant rafflesia, which is a known parasite.
Types of root change: biology reveals secrets
The root is a subterranean organ of a plant that performs vital functions in the body. This is primarily the fixing of plants in the soil and the absorption and conduction of water with nutrients. But in some plants, this organ is significantly modified anatomically and functionally. In this case, it plays a somewhat different role in the plant.
Roots
Types of changes in plant roots are primarily represented by root crops. Their man has long been used in food, as they are rich in vitamins and minerals. Parsley, parsnip, sugar beets, rutabaga, turnips ... These plants are a storehouse of useful substances. And the thing is that their main root thickens, being a storage tank. Root crops are usually biennial plants. In the first year they do not give seeds. And they have to endure autumn and winter in order to achieve the necessary level of development. Already in the second year, after flowering, seeds are formed in the fruits, with the help of which the generative propagation of these plants occurs.
Root tubers
Types of root changes, which are lateral and subordinate, have dahlia, ranunculus and clivia. They perform the same function - they store the necessary substances. In addition, they participate in vegetative propagation. In the scientific literature, one more name can often be found - root cones. Jerusalem artichoke, or earthen pear, they are eaten. 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 disease of the endocrine system - diabetes.
Unusual modifications
Types of root changes that 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 aerial roots. A plant with a massive shoot helps to maintain balance a different kind of modification. These are stilted roots. Vibrant examples of such plants are corn and pandanus.
And in the giant roots of the props of tropical animals, you can easily build real dwellings. For example, at a ficus banyan tree they hang directly from a magnificent crown from a height of several meters. Sucker roots are used by parasitic plants. With their help, water is drained from another organism.
The types of root changes that we examined in our article serve to perform additional functions. This is a supply of substances, vegetative propagation, support and gas exchange.