Describe the internal structure of a monocot root.

* The anatomy of the monocot root is similar to the dicot root in many aspects.
* The T.S of the monocot root shows three regions.
I) Epidermis; II) Cortex ; III) Stele
I) Epidermis :
* It is outer most layer.
* Many of the epidermal cells protrude in the form of unicellular root hairs.
II) Cortex :
* It consists of several layers of thin walled parenchyma cells with intercellular spaces.
Endodermis :
* It is the innermost layer of the cortex.
* It comprises a single layer of barrel shaped cells without intercellular spaces.
* The tangential as well as radial walls of the endodermal cells have casparian strips.
* Casparian strips are a deposition of water impermeable, waxy material – suberin in the form strips.
III) Stele :
* All the tissues on the inner side of the endodermis constitute the stele.
* It consists of
a) Pericycle b) Vascular tissues c) Pith d) Conjunctive tissue
a. Pericycle :
* It is present below the endodermis.
* It is a few layers of thick walled parenchyma cells.
* Lateral roots are initiated from pericycle.
b. Vascular tissues :
* There are usually more than six (Polyarch) xylem bundles in monocot root.
c) Pith :
* Pith is large and well developed.
d) Conjunctive tissues :
* The parenchymatous cells which lie between the xylem and the phloem are called conjunctive tissue.
* Monocotyledonous roots do not undergo any secondary growth.