Question

Prop tree of the banyan tree is meant for
A. Respiration
B. Absorption of water from the soil
C. Retention of water in the soil
D. Providing support to the big tree

Answer 1

Prop roots are also known as pillar roots. They are thick aerial roots that grow horizontally like pillars. They are commonly found in Ficus bengalensis or banyan trees.

Complete answer:
Prop roots are a type of aerial adventitious roots that are modified to provide support. They help in providing mechanical support to the aerial branches. They grow vertically downward into the soil as lateral branches and act as pillars. They are also known as columnar roots that give extra mechanical support to heavy stem branches of the banyan tree.

A banyan tree is profusely branched and the branches are thick and heavy. From these branches, roots arise and hang downwards and then penetrate the soil and function as a prop to the branches. They develop at successively higher levels on the stem. They descend externally from the stem into the ground. They play a substantial role in endowing a banyan tree with extra structural support. Stilt roots are stouter than prop roots. Those formed at the base of the mangrove tree provide firm anchorage in the soft mud of the swamps.

Hence, the correct answer is option D.

Note: Prop roots are a type of aerial adventitious roots. In young conditions, these roots help to absorb moisture from the atmosphere. After absorbing moisture, they become reddish. Then, these roots penetrate the soil and form more branches for the anchorage. It is very hard to distinguish between prop roots and the stem in the banyan tree.