Question

Identify the type of modified root and select the correct statement regarding it.

• A. It is the tuberous root of Dahlia that stores inulin as reserve food.
• B. It is modified taproot that occurs in Dahlia.
• C. It is a modified adventitious that stores reserve food material.
• D. These roots are modified to provide mechanical support to the plant.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

It is the tuberous root of Dahlia that stores inulin as reserve food.

A tuberous root is an enlarged fleshy root modified as a storage organ (dahlia stores inulin) with shoots produced at one end and roots produced at the other. The Inulin molecules obtained from dahlia tubers are called Dahlin. After undergoing a special treatment, dahlia tubers yield pure laevulose that is sometimes called Atlanta Starch or Diabetic Sugar, which is frequently prescribed for the needs of diabetic and consumptive patients and has been given to children in cases of wasting illness.

For extraction of the Inulin, the roots or tubers are sliced, treated with milk of lime and steamed. The juice is then expressed and clarified by subsidence and filtration, the clear liquid being run into a revolving cooler until flakes are produced. These flakes are separated by a centrifugal machine, washed and decolourized, and the thus purified product finally treated with diluted acid, and so converted into laevulose. This solution of laevulose is neutralized and evaporated to a syrup in a vacuum pan.

So, the correct answer is 'It is the tuberous root of Dahlia that stores inulin as reserve food.'