Question

Rootlets are called as
A) Taproot
B) Adventitious roots
C) Lateral roots
D) None of the above

Answer 1

Roots are the part of the vascular plants that normally grow underground. Its primary role is to absorb water and minerals and its conduction. Roots may be primary and secondary.

Complete answer:
Let us analyse each option to find out the correct answer.
Option A: Taproot is a bunch of roots that emerge from the radicle of the germinating embryo. It comprises a taproot, secondary roots, tertiary roots, and root hairs. The radicle grows up to form the main or primary root of plants. The constant primary root is called the taproot. It is the most distinguished, thickest, and largest root. Taproot gradually tapers toward the tip. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.
Option B: Adventitious roots are the roots that emerge from any non-root tissue. They are produced in both the condition i.e., during normal development and in response to stress conditions. Climbing roots in ivy, prop roots in corn are few examples of adventitious roots. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.
Option C: Lateral roots are also called rootlets. They are small branches of roots that form from the main root and help the plant in the absorption of water and minerals as they increase surface area. Therefore, this is the correct option.
Option D: Lateral roots are referred to as rootlets. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.

Thus, the correct answer is option (C) Lateral roots.

Note: It is to be noted that lateral roots arise endogenously from other roots. They have ave an internal, or endogenous, origin, in contrast to the external, or exogenous, the origin of leaves and the apical meristem of stems.