Page 35 - through Clusters and Networks

Roots are parts of vascular plants that
are usually hidden from view.
They form a vast underground
branched network, connected like the
Internet between plants and also with
other organisms; such as fungi. Most
plants have roots as long as their
shoots. Roots anchor the plants,
perform absorption of water and
dissolved minerals, transport of
precious cargo to the stem, and
sometimes storage of food for the next
season. The root differs from the stem
mainly by lacking bark, leaf scars and
buds, having a root 'cap' (that
navigates and protects the growing
root) , and branches that originate from
internal tissue rather than from buds.

Dr. P V Shiva Prasad
Plant Epigenetics Lab
NCBS - TIFR
Bangalore

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