Correct Option
The correct option isFibrous root system
Explanation
Angiosperms are broadly classified into monocotyledons and dicotyledons. These two groups exhibit distinct morphological differences, particularly in their root systems. The root system is primarily derived from the radicle of the embryo during germination.
Detailed Analysis
- Nature of Maize Plant: Maize (Zea mays) is a monocotyledonous plant.
- Development of Root System: In monocots, the primary root that emerges from the radicle is short-lived and does not develop into a persistent main root.
- Fibrous Root System: The primary root is replaced by a large number of roots that originate from the base of the stem. These roots are generally of similar size and thickness, forming a dense network. This type of arrangement is called a fibrous root system. It is characteristic of monocots like wheat, rice, and maize.
- Comparison with Other Systems:
- Taproot System: Characteristic of dicots (e.g., mustard, gram), where the primary root persists and grows deep into the soil, bearing lateral roots.
- Tuberous Roots: These are modified roots meant for food storage (e.g., sweet potato), not a general classification for maize.
- Assimilatory Roots: These are modified photosynthetic roots (e.g., Tinospora), which is not the case for maize.
- While maize has a fibrous root system underground, it also develops stilt roots arising from the lower nodes of the stem to provide mechanical support. These are a type of adventitious root.
Key Takeaway
Monocots (e.g., maize, wheat) are characterized by a fibrous root system, whereas dicots (e.g., mustard, pea) are characterized by a taproot system.