EXORHIZAL Meaning and
Definition
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Exorhizal is an adjective that pertains to a specific root growth pattern commonly observed in certain plant species. When defining "exorhizal," it refers to the type of root structure in which the main or primary root, known as the taproot, emerges from the seed during germination and continues to grow vertically downwards into the soil. This growth habit is in contrast to endorhizal, in which the primary root remains within the seed or plant for some time before eventually emerging.
In exorhizal plants, the taproot system is usually the dominant root structure, and it serves as the central axis from which smaller lateral roots develop and spread horizontally into the surrounding soil. This type of root system is typically observed in dicotyledonous plants, such as oak and walnut trees, where the primary taproot elongates considerably during early growth stages. Exorhizal roots provide stability and anchorage for the plant, enabling it to access deeper soil layers in search of water and nutrients.
Furthermore, exorhizal plants tend to exhibit a stronger resistance to drought since the taproot can penetrate deeper into the soil, thus reaching water sources that may be inaccessible to plants with a shallower root system. This root growth pattern is often considered advantageous in arid or semi-arid environments, helping plants cope with harsh conditions.
Overall, the term "exorhizal" describes a specific root growth pattern in plants where a prominent taproot emerges from the seed and develops a dominant root axis, allowing for deeper soil penetration and improved drought resistance.
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In bot., applied to those plants whose roots in germination proceed at once from the radicular extremity of the embryo, and do not burst through an outer coat.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EXORHIZAL
- wxorhizal
- sxorhizal
- dxorhizal
- rxorhizal
- 4xorhizal
- 3xorhizal
- ezorhizal
- ecorhizal
- esorhizal
- exirhizal
- exkrhizal
- exlrhizal
- exprhizal
- ex0rhizal
- ex9rhizal
- exoehizal
- exodhizal
- exofhizal
- exothizal
Etymology of EXORHIZAL
The word "exorhizal" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "exo" and "rhiza".
The prefix "exo-" in Greek means "outside" or "external", while "rhiza" translates to "root". Hence, "exorhizal" is formed by combining these two components to describe a characteristic or attribute related to roots that grow outside or externally to a seed or plant.
