tuber
Definition
A tuber is a swollen, underground stem that is used for food storage. It is a type of modified stem that is found in some plants, such as potatoes, yams, and ginger.
Tubers are formed when the stem grows horizontally underground. The cells in the stem enlarge and store food, such as starch and sugars.
Tubers can be propagated by planting them in the ground. They will then grow into new plants.
Tubers are an important food source for humans and animals. They are also used in traditional medicine.
How can the word be used?
The carrot is a tuber.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
a short, thick, fleshy underground stem that stores food.
Adjective:
resembling a tuber.
Etymology
The word "tuber" comes from the Latin word "tūber", which means "lump, bump, swelling".
The first recorded use of the word "tuber" in English was in the 16th century.
The word "tuber" is a Latin word, and it is related to the Italian word "tubero" and the Spanish word "tubérculo".
Question
What is a tuber?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define a tuber in the context of plant anatomy and explain its role in plant survival and propagation. Describe how tubers are formed and stored by plants. Provide an example of a common edible tuber and its significance in human nutrition.
Answer:
A tuber is a specialised underground stem modification found in certain plants. It serves as a storage organ that plays a vital role in both plant survival and propagation.
Tubers are formed through a process known as vegetative propagation. During this process, the plant's stem swells and accumulates nutrients, primarily starch, which is stored to sustain the plant during adverse conditions such as winter or drought. This stored energy can also be used for new growth once conditions improve.
An example of a common edible tuber is the potato. Potatoes are underground tubers that store starch and other nutrients. They are essential in human nutrition, providing a rich source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes have been a staple food for centuries, contributing to diets worldwide.
In addition to providing sustenance, tubers have significant agricultural implications. Farmers can use tubers to propagate new plants by planting sections of the tuber, which will sprout and grow into new plants. This method of propagation ensures the genetic continuity of desirable plant traits.