Chapter 22.2, Problem 6MI

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The difference between the three stems that store food.

Introduction:

Stem is an important organ in vascular plants. Its function is to support leaves, fruits, and flowers of the plant. It also transports water and dissolves nutrients across the other parts of the plant.

Explanation of Solution

The three types of stems that store food are tubers, rhizomes, and corms. Tubers are specialized stems of some seed plants. These stems are thick and short and grow below the surface. These stems contain parenchyma cells that store starch and allow overwintering in certain plants.

Rhizomes are underground horizontal stems that produce root and shoot system of new plant. They store starch and proteins which are used by plants during unfavorable season.

Corms are fleshy and underground stems. They store food in certain plants. These stems store starch as fuel for the growth and survival of plants.