Taproot

A type of root system that grows straight down with few lateral roots. Related Images:

Region of maturation

The area of the root where the enlarged root cells turn into the various root tissues. Related Images:

Rhizobia bacteria

Bacteria that live in association with roots of legumes and convert atmospheric nitrogen to plant-available forms, a process known as nitrogen fixation. Related Images:

Rhizome

A stem that forms the main axis of the plant. An underground creeping stem that can produce roots and shoots at each node. (adj. rhizomatous) Related Images:

Rhizosphere

The thin layer of soil immediately surrounding plant roots. Related Images:

Root cap

The cells that protect the root tip as it pushes through the soil. These cells slough off and are replaced by others as roots grow downward. Related Images:

Root hair

Thin hair-like structure that grows from the epidermis of the region of maturation of the root. This structure absorbs water and nutrients from the soil. Related Images:

Root knots

Swelling and deformation of roots. Related Images:

Root meristem

A type of apical meristem located at the tips of roots. Provides for elongation of the roots and produces the cells that will become the epidermis, cortex, xylem, cambium, and phloem of the mature root. Related Images: