Question

Lateral root in higher plant arise from
A) Cortex
B) Pericycle
C) Epidermis
D) Endodermis

Answer 1

Lateral roots arise from the meristematic tissue out from the soil which comes out horizontally from the primary root. They increase surface area for more absorption of water.

Complete answer:

The lateral roots are also known as secondary roots. These roots mimic the primary root in structure and function. These roots arise from other roots. The chief function of these roots is water absorption by providing more surface area.
These roots develop from the outermost layer of the cell in the vascular cylinder called pericycle.

Function of lateral roots-
-It holds the plant firmly in the soil.
-It absorbs water and nutrients from the soil.
-Increases the surface area for more absorption of nutrients and water to facilitate growth and development.

Additional Information:
Lateral root differs from the root hairs. The lateral roots have root cap but root hairs lack root cap. Root hairs are single celled but lateral roots are formed by many cells. Root hairs develop in the region of maturation whereas lateral roots arise from the pericycle.

Thus the correct answer is (B). Lateral roots in higher plants arise from pericycles.

Note: Xylem and phloem form the vascular cylinder and are found in the centre of the root. The taproot produces small secondary roots called the lateral roots which grow horizontally and diagonally. The secondary roots can further produce lateral roots called the tertiary roots.