Question

Write a note root modified for mechanical support.

Answer 1

Many Plants require additional support. Such plants develop roots on their aerial parts to provide mechanical support. These roots grow downward and act as supportive organs. There are three types of modified roots for support.

1. Prop roots: Roots are modified to provide mechanical support as seen in a Banyan tree. These roots grow vertically from horizontal branches of a tree.
2. Stilt roots: In sugarcane, and maize adventitious roots arise from the nodes in cluster at the base of the stem. These roots are called stilt roots which gives additional support.
3. Climbing roots: In betel and black pepper, nodes or intermodes bear roots which help in climbing.