Fibrous Roots
/FY-brus ROOTS/🔬 Anatomy● Basic
Also known as: fibrous root system, adventitious roots
A root system consisting of many similarly-sized roots branching repeatedly to form a dense, spreading network near the soil surface. Fibrous root systems are excellent at stabilising soil and absorbing moisture from the upper soil layers. Most grasses, many perennials, and some trees (like maples) have fibrous roots. Plants with fibrous roots transplant more easily than those with taproots.
Etymology
Latin fibra (fibre, filament) + Old English rot (root)
Example
“Grass has a dense fibrous root system that makes it excellent for preventing soil erosion on slopes.”