Stilt roots in sugarcane

Options

A. arise from horizontally placed aerial branches
B. develops from the basal node of the stem
C. are hygroscopic
D. act like pillars and provide support to aerial branches

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Stilt Roots:**
- Stilt roots are specialized roots that arise from the lower nodes of the stem of certain plants. They are primarily found in plants like sugarcane and maize.

2. **Function of Stilt Roots:**
- The main function of stilt roots is to provide support to the main axis of the plant. They help in stabilizing the plant, especially in areas where the soil may not be very firm.

3. **Origin of Stilt Roots:**
- Stilt roots originate from the lower nodes of the stem, which means they grow from the points on the stem where leaves are attached.

4. **Growth Direction:**
- These roots typically enter the soil obliquely, which means they grow at an angle rather than straight down.

5. **Evaluation of Statements:**
- The question may present several statements about stilt roots in sugarcane. We need to evaluate these statements to determine which one is correct:
- **Statement 1:** "Stilt roots arise from horizontally placed aerial branches." - This is incorrect.
- **Statement 2:** "They develop from the basal node of the stem." - This is correct.
- **Statement 3:** "They are hygroscopic." - This is incorrect.
- **Statement 4:** "They act as a pillar and provide support to the aerial branches." - This is incorrect; they support the main axis, not specifically the aerial branches.

6. **Conclusion:**
- The correct statement regarding stilt roots in sugarcane is that they develop from the basal node of the stem.

**Final Answer:**
- Stilt roots in sugarcane develop from the basal node of the stem and provide support to the main axis.

---