Root systems are the plant's foundation for water and nutrient absorption. Tap roots like this carrot have a main central root that penetrates deep into soil, while fibrous root systems spread horizontally near the surface. Both designs optimize water uptake for different environments.
🌿 Root System Types
Tap root: single main root, deep penetration (carrots, oak trees)
Fibrous root: many similar-sized roots, shallow spread (grasses, rice)
Root hairs: increase surface area for water absorption
Root cap: protects growing tip as it pushes through soil
Cortex: storage tissue and pathway for water movement
Root Facts!
A single rye grass plant can have over 14 billion root hairs with a combined surface area larger than a football field!
🎯 Learning Objectives
Compare tap root and fibrous root systems, understand how root structure relates to function, and learn about root specializations for water absorption.