Question

Tap root system is found in: ____.

• A. Monocots
• B. Dicots
• C. Algae
• D. Moss

Hint:

You can usually guess the root system by looking at the leaves! Plants with reticulate (net-like) venation in their leaves are Dicots and have tap roots. Plants with parallel venation are Monocots and have fibrous roots.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Root systems are categorized based on their embryonic origin and growth pattern into tap root, fibrous root, and adventitious root systems.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Tap Root System: Characterized by the direct elongation of the embryonic radicle, which forms a persistent primary root. This primary root gives off lateral branches called secondary and tertiary roots. This system is a core feature of Dicotyledonous plants (e.g., Mustard, Gram, Mango).
• Fibrous Root System: Seen in Monocots (e.g., Wheat, Rice), where the primary root is short-lived and replaced by a large cluster of thin roots arising from the base of the stem.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The tap root system is found in Dicots.

Answer 2

The question asks which group of plants typically shows a tap root system, so each option is checked against how its root system actually develops.

1. Monocots: In monocots, the embryonic radicle is short-lived and soon replaced by a dense cluster of thin roots growing out from the base of the stem, forming a fibrous root system rather than a tap root.
2. Dicots: In dicots, the embryonic radicle itself keeps growing and thickening, forming one dominant primary root that persists throughout the plant's life, with thinner secondary and tertiary roots branching off from it. This single, persistent, central root is exactly what defines a tap root system.
3. Algae: Algae lack true roots altogether. Many attach to surfaces using simple structures called holdfasts, which anchor the organism but do not absorb water or nutrients the way roots do.
4. Moss: Mosses anchor themselves with thread-like structures called rhizoids, which are not true roots and show none of the branching, persistent structure of a tap root.

Only dicots develop a single, persistent primary root that thickens and branches in the pattern that defines a tap root system.

Therefore, the correct answer is Dicots.