Biology: How Life Works
Biology: How Life Works
3rd Edition
ISBN: 9781319017637
Author: James Morris, Daniel Hartl, Andrew Knoll, Melissa Michael, Robert Lue, Andrew Berry, Andrew Biewener, Brian Farrell, N. Michele Holbrook
Publisher: Macmillan Higher Education
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Chapter 27.5, Problem 10SAQ
Summary Introduction

To enlist:

The four adaptations of roots that enhance the uptake of nutrients from the soil.

Introduction:

In vascular plants, root is the main part that lies below the soil but can be aerial or aerating. A root absorbs the nutrients dissolved in the soil and transports these nutrients to the rest of the plant parts with the help of the xylem.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

The four adaptations of roots that enhance the uptake of nutrients from the soil are as follows:

1) Root hairs: The slender outgrowth of epidermal cells. They greatly increase the surface area for the absorption of the nutrients.

2) Endodermal cells: Phloem and xylem are surrounded with the endodermis. Endodermis in the roots is made of layer of cells that act as guard, controlling the inflow and outflow of nutrients into the xylem.

3) Mycorrhizae: The association of fungi with the roots increases the uptake of nutrients from the soil. The association is mutual as plant provides readymade food in the form of sugar and fungus helps the plant in terms of nutrients uptake.

4) Root nodules: The roots of the plant forms association with the nitrogen fixing bacteria. In response to the chemicals, bacteria multiply within rhizosphere and roots cells divide to form pea sized protrusion called root nodules.

Conclusion

The four adaptations of roots that enhance the uptake of nutrients from the soil are root hairs, Endodermal cells, Mycorrhizae and root nodules.

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