What are examples of specialized stems and roots in plants?

Specialized stems and roots play crucial roles in plant survival and adaptation. Bulbs, corms, rhizomes, tubers, and tuberous roots are all examples of structures that store nutrients, assist in vegetative reproduction, and provide the plant with a means to survive adverse conditions.

Bulbs, such as onions and tulips, consist of layers of fleshy leaves that store food, allowing the plant to endure winter months and resume growth in spring. Corms, like those of gladiolus, also serve as storage organs but are shorter and more solid than bulbs. Rhizomes are horizontal stems that grow underground and can produce new shoots and roots, helping create new plants and expand the plant's territory, as seen in bamboo or ginger.

Tubers, such as potatoes, are swollen portions of a stem that store starch and can sprout into new plants, while tuberous roots, like sweet potatoes, serve a similar purpose but are modified roots that store energy and nutrients.

These structures highlight the plant's ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments, making them essential for survival and reproduction. In contrast, other choices like leaves, petals, thorns, and tendrils represent different plant parts with varied functions, such