Question

Distinguish between tap root and adventitious root.

Answer 1

Tap Root	Adventitious Root
1. It originates from the radicle of embryo.	(i) It does not arise from radicle but from any other part of the plant.
2. Primary root is never destroyed.	(ii) Primary root is short lived (ephemeral).
3. It is always underground.	(iii) It may be aerial or underground.
4. Main root is only one.	(iv) To many roots arise in bunch.
5. Generally it goes deep into the soil.	(v) It does not grow deep into the soil.
6. Main root is thicker than rest of the root.	(vi) All the roots are fibrous.
7. Primary, secondary and tertiary roots are present.	(vii) No such differentiation is found here.
8. It is present in dicotyledons plants.	(viii) It is present in monocotyledon plants.