Question

Describe the morphology of a tap root system.

Answer 1

Regions of a Tap Root:
Root Cap: The root is covered at the tip by a thimble like structure. This structure is called root cap. The root cap protects the tender root apex when it makes its way through the soil.
Region of Division and Elongation:This region lies a few millimeters above the root cap. This is the region of meristematic activity. The cells in this region are very small, have thin wall and dense protoplasm. Since this is the meristematic region, the cells divide rapidly. The cells near this region undergo rapid elongation and enlargement. These cells are responsible for the growth of root in length.
Region of Maturation: This region is just above the region of elongation. The cells from the region of elongation differentiate and mature, and then form the region of maturation. The root hairs come out in this region. Root hairs are part of the root epidermis.