FBS 10 (LEC) 3

Rhizosphere

Zone of soil surrounding roots, rich in microorganisms and nutrients.

Radicle

The embryonic root that develops into the primary root.

Taproot system

Type of root system with a central large root and lateral branches, common in dicots.

Fibrous root system

Type of root system made of thin, stringy roots of similar diameter, common in monocots.

Root cap

Protective structure covering the root tip that secretes a slimy substance for easier soil penetration.

Quiescent center

Small, centrally located part of the root apical meristem that divides very slowly but activates during stress.

Region of cell division

Root tip region where cells actively divide every 12–36 hours.

Region of elongation

Root tip region where cells rapidly increase in length.

Region of maturation

Root tip region where cells differentiate into specialized tissues like xylem and phloem.

Root hairs

Outgrowths of epidermal cells that increase surface area for absorption.

Epidermis

The outermost single layer of cells of the young root, developed from the protoderm.

Cortex

The tissue layer inside the epidermis that aids in diffusion, storage, and transport of water and minerals.

Endodermis

Innermost layer of the cortex with Casparian strips that regulate water and mineral absorption.

Pericycle

Single layer of tightly packed cells in the root where lateral roots originate.

Vascular cylinder (stele)

The central part of the root consisting of the pericycle, xylem, and phloem.

Protoxylem

First primary xylem element to mature, located at the outer points of the xylem.

Metaxylem

Last primary xylem element to mature, located at the center of vascular tissue.

Protoderm

Meristematic tissue that gives rise to the epidermis.

Ground meristem

Meristematic tissue that gives rise to the cortex and pith.

Procambium

Meristematic tissue that gives rise to vascular tissues (xylem and phloem).