Question

Clinging roots are found in
a. Orchids
b. Trapa
c. Podostemon
d. Screwpine

Answer 1

Clinging roots are the modifications of the adventitious roots. Adventitious roots are specialised roots developed from any parts of the plant other than the radicle. These roots fix the plant on the bark of the tree (host) and absorb the nutrients found on the tree bark.

Complete answer:
Roots are cylindrical, underground and non-green parts of the plant. It is generally the descending portion of the plant. Roots are the underground part of the plant that absorbs water and minerals from the soil and provides mechanical support to the plant. Roots stores reserve food materials and it is involved in the synthesis of plant growth regulators. Roots are the vegetative part of the plant and it is also a habitat to the various organisms.

Clinging roots are the non absorptive adventitious roots arising either from nodes, internodes or both. The clinging roots are found in the epiphytes. They are dwelling on the surface of other plant parts such as branches, tree trunks for nutrients and shelter. These roots are found in the orchids.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Additional information:
- Trapa (water chestnut) contains aerial roots and submerged roots are known as assimilatory roots. These roots are green and synthesize food.
- Podostemon also has green assimilatory roots.

Note: There are three types of root system: Tap root system (Mustard, carrot, beet root, and china rose), fibrous root system (Rice, wheat, maize, banana and all monocots) and adventitious root system (orchids). A typical root consists of root cap, meristematic root, zone of elongation and region of maturation.