Laboratory 2: on Roots and Stems

These flashcards cover key terms related to plant root and stem morphology, anatomy, and functions.

Radicle

Embryonic root; the first part of a seedling to emerge from the seed.

Hypocotyl

The part of a seedling below the cotyledons and above the radicle.

Apical Meristem

A region of actively dividing cells at the tip of roots and shoots, responsible for growth in length.

Lateral Roots

Roots that arise from the primary root and increase the surface area for water and nutrient uptake.

Pericycle

A layer of cells in plant roots that gives rise to lateral roots.

Root Cap

A protective structure at the tip of a root that helps it penetrate the soil.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of cells in the root, providing protection and involved in absorption.

Cortex

The layer of tissue between the epidermis and the stele, primarily involved in storage.

Stele

The central part of a root or stem containing the vascular tissues (xylem and phloem).

Zone of Differentiation

The area of the root where cells mature into various types of specialized cells.

Mycorrhizae

Fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing nutrient absorption.

Rhizobium

Bacteria that form nodules on the roots of legumes, capable of nitrogen fixation.

Chlorenchyma

A type of parenchyma tissue that contains chloroplasts and is involved in photosynthesis.

Fibrous Root System

A root system characterized by many thin roots, often found in monocots.

Taproot System

A root system characterized by one primary root that grows deep into the soil, often found in dicots.

Secondary Growth

The thickening of roots and stems due to the activity of vascular cambium and cork cambium.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of water and nutrients from roots to leaves.

Phloem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.

Pneumatophores

Specialized roots that grow upwards in waterlogged environments to help in gas exchange.

Adventitious Roots

Roots that arise from non-root tissues, such as stems, to support the plant.

Vascular Cambium

A layer of meristematic tissue that produces secondary xylem and phloem.

Cork Cambium

A layer of tissue that produces the protective outer layer (periderm) of plants.