Gyökérkéreg

Gyökérkéreg refers to the outermost layer of a plant's root. This layer plays a crucial role in the plant's survival and interaction with its environment. The epidermis, a single layer of cells, forms the outer boundary of the root. Root hairs, which are extensions of epidermal cells, greatly increase the surface area of the root, facilitating the absorption of water and minerals from the soil.

Beneath the epidermis is the cortex, which typically consists of parenchyma cells. These cells serve as storage for food reserves and may also be involved in the transport of water and ions into the vascular cylinder. The innermost layer of the cortex is the endodermis. The endodermis is characterized by the presence of Casparian strips, which are impermeable bands of suberin. These strips regulate the passage of water and dissolved substances into the vascular tissues, ensuring that only filtered nutrients reach the xylem and phloem.

The vascular cylinder, or stele, is located at the center of the root and contains the xylem and phloem, responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the plant. The gyökérkéreg, therefore, acts as a protective outer covering and a vital interface for nutrient and water uptake, essential for the plant's overall health and growth. Its structure is a testament to the specialized adaptations of plants for terrestrial life.