Regions of Root

Introduction

• A typical root consists of four main regions from tip onwards which are as follows:
    1. Root cap
    2. Region of meristematic activity
    3. Region of elongation
    4. Region of maturation

Detailed Explanation:

Regions of Root:

1. Root cap:

• The apex of the root is covered by a thimble-like structure called root cap.
• It is multicellular and parenchymatous.
• It protects the tender apex of the root as it makes its way through the soil.
• They are rich in Golgi vesicles.
• Due to the presence of the root cap at the apex, the growth of the root is subterminal.

2. Region of meristematic activity:

• This layer is a few millimetres above the root cap.
• It consists of thin-walled meristematic cells having dense protoplasm and a prominent nucleus.
• These cells divide very rapidly to produce new cells.

3. Region of elongation:

• The cells proximal to the meristematic region undergo rapid elongation and enlargement.
• Responsible for the increase in the length of the root.

4. Region of maturation:

• It lies proximal to the region of elongation.
• Here, the elongated cells finally get differentiated and mature.
• Some of the epidermal cells of this region differentiate to form fine, delicate and thread-like structures called the root hairs.
• Root hairs help to increase the surface area of absorption of water and minerals from the soil.