Underground Stem: Definition, Meaning, Modifications, Types, Parts, FAQs

What Is An Underground Stem?

Underground stems are a type of specialised stem that grows underground. They provide protection, storage, and reproduction capabilities to plants that contain this element in their life cycle.

Types Of Underground Stems

Different types of underground stems have the following distinctive characteristics and functions:

Rhizomes

Rhizomes are types of underground stems that grow horizontally parallel to the ground surface. They are characterised by the

Asexual Reproduction: Rhizomes can grow new shoots and roots; this allows them to go through vegetative propagation.

Storage: They serve as storage organs, and store nutrients and energy that allow a plant to survive unfavourable conditions.

Tubers

Tubers are those fleshy underground stems which serve as storage organs. They are characterised by the following characteristics:

Nutrient Storage: They store carbohydrates, primarily starch. It is utilised during growth or dormancy.

Examples: One of the common examples of tubers is potatoes.

Corms

Corms are short, swollen underground stems and they also act as storage organs. They are different from tubers by their structure:

Structure: Corms are solid and fleshy tissue of the stem.

Functions: They store food and energy and give rise to new shoots similar to tubers.

Functions Of Underground Stems

Underground stems perform some vital functions needed for the survival and growth of the plant:

Storage

Many underground stems are storage organs that aggregate stores of nutrients and reserve energy to foster growth in periods of poor conditions.

Vegetative Reproduction

Most of the underground stems provide a plant with the capacity for vegetative reproduction, which is rapid and thus allows the colonisation of new areas by a plant.

Perennation

It is stored starch in underground stems that equips plants with the energy required to survive periods of drought or nutrient deficiency.

Conclusion

Many of the underground stems play an important role in plant health, providing storage, reproduction, and survival strategies. These adaptations show just how resilient and versatile plant life is.

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