Question

What kind of root system contains many small branching roots?

Answer 1

The root is the non-green cylindrical downward axis of the plant, which usually grows in the soil (positive geotropism) and develops from the radical. Different plants possess different patterns of root growth called the root systems. These root systems help the plant in anchoring the soil and absorbing water and nutrients from the soil.

Complete answer:
Before we discuss our question, we need to know what are the different types of root systems.
So, the root systems are basically of two types - the tap root system and the adventitious or the fibrous root system.
In the tap root system, there is a main root from which secondary and tertiary roots develop whereas in the fibrous root system many roots branch from different parts of the plant.
Now as per our question, the fibrous root system actually contains many small branching roots.
In a fibrous or adventitious root system the primary root from the radical is short lived and then many adventitious small branching roots develop from different plant structures including the stem.
Fibrous root systems are found to have three basic functionaries from anchoring the soil, mechanical support to plants and in the storage of food materials.
The adventitious roots are called as lateral roots and appear as a bunch of equal sized threads and collectively they form the fibrous root system. Example - Grasses, potato tubers etc.

Note:
The root has two functions, the main function and the auxiliary function. Main functions include - absorption of water and minerals from the soil, helps to firmly anchor plants to the ground. In some plants, roots have additional functions. These are called secondary functions which are served by modifications in their structure.