What type of root system consists of many thin roots that spread out from the base of the plant?

A fibrous root system is characterized by a network of many thin roots that emerge from the base of the plant. This type of root system is typical of many grasses and some other plants, where the roots spread out widely in the soil rather than growing deep. The fibrous roots help to increase the surface area for water and nutrient absorption, which is advantageous in environments where rainfall can be variable and where rapid uptake is necessary for plant health.

In contrast, a taproot system features a single, prominent main root with smaller lateral roots. This system allows the plant to anchor firmly and access deeper water supplies. Storage roots are specialized for storing energy reserves and nutrients, such as in carrots or beets, while anchor roots are additional roots that help stabilize the plant structure but do not define the overall root system type. Understanding the distinct characteristics of these root systems is crucial in botany and ecology, as they play significant roles in plant adaptation and survival.