root (PO:0009005)

[planteome-user]

We need to revise root, since shoot-borne roots are also roots, and to get rid of the circularity with the definition of root system.

See related trackers: [plant-ontology-po-term-requests:#48], [plant-ontology-po-term-requests:#136]

Current def'n: root (PO:0009005): A plant axis (PO:0025004) that is part of a root system (PO:0025025).

Current Comment: Commonly thought of as one of the three basic parts of the seed plant body. A plant structure that is usually underground and does not bear leaves and only rarely shoots, is usually more or less positively geotropic, is endogenous in origin, indeterminate in growth and often with secondary thickening.

Propose revised def'n: A plant axis (PO:0025004) that is usually positively geotropic and found below ground, lacks shoot axis nodes (PO:0005004) and does not bear leaves (PO:0025034).

Comment: Roots primarily function in absorption of water and inorganic nutrients, anchoring and supporting the plant body, storage of food and nutrients, and vegetative reproduction. Roots are endogenous in origin, indeterminate in growth and often with secondary thickening. Commonly thought of as one of the three basic parts of the seed plant body.

Reported by: cooperl09

Original Ticket: obo/plant-ontology-po-term-requests/578