Adventitious
Definition
Adventitious describes structures that develop in unusual or unexpected locations. In plants, it often refers to roots that grow from non-root tissues such as stems or leaves.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Adventitious roots can arise from stem cuttings and are crucial for vegetative propagation.
- These roots help in stabilization and nutrient absorption, particularly in adverse conditions.
- In seedless vascular plants, adventitious structures can be a response to injury or environmental stress.
- They play a significant role in the colonization of new habitats by providing additional support and resource acquisition.
- Adventitious growth is common in ferns and other seedless vascular plants, aiding in their spread and survival.
Review Questions
- What are adventitious roots and where do they typically form?
- How do adventitious structures benefit seedless vascular plants?
- Why might a plant develop adventitious roots under stressful conditions?
"Adventitious" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Related terms
Rhizome: An underground horizontal stem that often produces roots and shoots at nodes.
Sporophyte: The diploid, spore-producing phase in the life cycle of a plant.
Stolon: A horizontal above-ground stem that can produce new plants at its nodes.
