Tinospora is an example of which root type?

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

Answer: (C)

Assimilatory roots are chlorophyll-bearing roots that can photosynthesize, helping the plant gain carbon beyond what the leaves provide. Tinospora cordifolia is a green climbing plant that bears aerial, green roots capable of photosynthesis, so these roots contribute to its energy needs directly. That makes it a classic example of assimilatory roots, where the root tissue itself participates in photosynthesis.

Adventitious roots arise from non-root tissues and are mainly for attachment or absorption, not chlorophyll-containing photosynthesis. Storage roots are swollen for food storage, lacking this photosynthetic role. Prop roots provide extra support. These distinctions help explain why Tinospora fits assimilatory roots rather than the other types.