Question

Velamen found in epiphytic roots is meant for
A) Absorption of water from host
B) Absorption of water from air
C) Perennation
D) Protection

Answer 1

Roots are one of the most important organs of plants that helps in absorbing water and nutrients from the surrounding soil and also provides anchorage to the plants.

Complete answer:
Epiphytes are classified as organisms that grow on the surface of a plant and utilize this plant for obtaining nutrients and moisture. Epiphytes can be distinguished from parasites because though they utilise a host for their supply of nutrients but they do not affect the host adversely.
The epiphytes possess three kinds of roots- epiphytic roots, clinging roots and absorbing roots. The function of these three root varieties are also different as well as their tissue composition. The clinging roots help the epiphytes to attach to their host plant, the absorbing root helps the epiphyte to absorb moisture as well as mineral salts that accumulate on the bark surface and the epiphytic roots which are thick and irregular helps in the absorption of water. The epiphytic roots do not possess root hair or root cap instead it consists of a dead spongy tissue known as velamen and this velamen helps it to absorb moisture from the air.

Hence the correct answer is option (B) Absorption of water from air.

Note: Epiphytes can be either terrestrial or marine. Among the terrestrial group mosses is the most well known and widespread followed by orchids and ferns. Among the marine group algae are the most widespread followed by sponges, bacteria, fungi, etc.