Rhizoids: A Fundamental Guide to the Root-Like Structures in Non-Vascular Plants, Fungi, and Algae

rhizoids

rootlike structureshyphae that look like roots

Rhizoids are thread-like structures that are found on the lower surfaces of certain non-vascular plants, fungi and some algae. They are responsible for anchoring the plant or fungus to the substrate, being a form of root-like structure that penetrates the soil or other substrate in order for the organism to obtain nutrients.

In mosses, rhizoids are long, unicellular and branched cells that perform similar functions to roots, such as anchoring the plant to the substrate and absorbing water and minerals. In fungi, rhizoids are multicellular and grow from the mycelium to absorb nutrients and anchor the fungus to the substrate. In some algae, such as the green alga Ulva, rhizoids are thin filaments that help anchor the alga to the substrate.

Rhizoids are not true roots though, as they lack vascular tissue. They do not absorb water and nutrients efficiently compared to true roots, as no specialized organs are involved in the physiological process. Instead, water and nutrients are absorbed across the surface of the rhizoids through the process known as diffusion.

More Answers: