Question

Orchids are a recently evolved plant that have a novel feature known as aerial roots. What is the most likely function of an orchid's specialized roots?
A Aerial roots are the site of energy synthesis.
B Aerial roots allow the orchid to attach itself to trees.
C Aerial roots produce food for the orchid through photosynthesis.
D Aerial roots anchor the orchid to the ground.

Answer 1

B

Orchids are often epiphytes (grow on other plants). Their aerial roots anchor the plant to tree branches and absorb water and nutrients from the air and debris (the spongy velamen layer aids moisture absorption), rather than anchoring in soil or being primary sites of photosynthesis.