Studies on the Roots of Musa acuminata cv. Gros Michel: 1. The Anatomy and Development of Main Roots

The anatomy of the adventitious roots of Musa acuminata cv.Gros Michel is described. Interesting anatomical features arethe occurrence of lysigenous lacunae in the cortex and the presenceof very large metaxylem vessels and internal phloem strandsin the stele. The organization of the root meristem is consideredin terms of present concepts. Histological preparations andautoradiographs suggest the existence of an area of relativequiescence in the meristem. The use of modified histogen terminologyin describing the apex is recommended. The development of thetissue systems is also described with emphasis on the differentiationof the vascular tissue.