Consider the following statements about roots: 1. Plants with fibrous roots typically have leaves with reticulate venation. 2. Plants with taproots…

The correct option is (b).

Explanation

In Angiosperms (flowering plants), there is a distinct correlation between the type of root system and the pattern of venation in the leaves. This distinction is a primary morphological difference between Dicotyledons (Dicots) and Monocotyledons (Monocots).

Statement-wise Analysis:

• Statement 1 is Incorrect. Plants with fibrous roots are typically Monocots (e.g., wheat, maize, grass). These plants generally possess leaves with parallel venation, where veins run parallel to each other, rather than reticulate venation.
• Statement 2 is Correct. Plants with taproots are typically Dicots (e.g., carrot, mustard, gram). These plants generally possess leaves with reticulate venation, where veins form a web-like network.
• Statement 3 is Incorrect. The description provided refers to a fibrous root system, where the primary root is short-lived and is replaced by a large number of roots originating from the base of the stem. In a taproot system, the primary root persists, grows deep into the soil, and bears lateral roots (secondary and tertiary roots).

Key Takeaway:

Dicots are characterized by taproots and reticulate venation, whereas Monocots are characterized by fibrous roots and parallel venation.