Assimilatory roots are roots modified to perform photosynthesis; Tinospora is an example.

• A. Adventitious Roots
• B. Storage Roots
• C. Assimilatory Roots
• D. Prop Roots

Answer: (C)

Assimilatory roots are roots that contain chlorophyll and can carry out photosynthesis, providing sugars to the plant in addition to their usual absorption role. They’re typically green and can supplement energy especially when leaves are limited or when light reaches the roots themselves. Tinospora cordifolia is a classic example: its roots are photosynthetic and contribute to the plant’s energy needs, not just water and mineral uptake. This sets assimilatory roots apart from storage roots, which are modified to store nutrients (like starch); from adventitious roots that arise from non-root tissues and may or may not photosynthesize; and from prop roots, whose main job is to provide support. Assimilatory roots represent a functional adaptation of roots toward photosynthesis rather than storage or support.