Understanding Corms and Bulbs
In plant biology, understanding storage organs like corms and bulbs is crucial. Both serve as underground storage structures, aiding plants in surviving adverse conditions and facilitating perennation.
A corm is a swollen underground stem that stores nutrients. It is solid inside and grows shoots from the top and roots from the base. Examples include gladiolus and crocus.
A bulb is an underground storage organ made of fleshy leaves attached to a short stem. It stores nutrients and grows a new shoot from the central bud. Examples include onions and tulips.
Let's explore the key differences between corms and bulbs to understand their structure, function, and role in plant growth.
Differences Between Corms and Bulbs
Understanding the distinctions between corms and bulbs is essential for NEET aspirants. Here's a comparative table highlighting their key differences:
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FAQs on Difference Between Corm and Bulb
1. Is garlic a corm or bulb?
Garlic is classified as a bulb, not a corm. It grows as a cluster of individual cloves encased in a papery, protective outer layer, which is typical of bulbs.
2. How do you identify bulbs and corms?
Bulbs typically consist of concentric layers of fleshy scales enclosed by a papery covering, making them easily recognizable. In contrast, corms are solid, swollen stem bases that lack the layered structure seen in bulbs.
3. What is the difference between a corm and a seed?
A corm is an underground storage organ containing living cells that can generate a new plant, providing nutrients and energy for growth. A seed, however, is a reproductive unit containing an embryo that must undergo germination before developing into a mature plant.
4. Is onion a corm or bulb?
Onion is classified as a bulb. Its structure comprises multiple layers of fleshy scales that store nutrients, a characteristic feature of bulbs.
5. What is a corm example?
A common example of a corm is the taro plant, which uses its swollen stem base to store nutrients effectively. Gladiolus is another example, where the underground structure functions as a corm to support growth and survival.
6. Is potato a corm?
No, a potato is not a corm; it is a tuber. Tubers are enlarged underground stems that store nutrients, differing structurally and functionally from corms.
7. Is onion a bulb?
Yes, an onion is indeed a bulb. Its layered, fleshy structure is a hallmark of bulbs and is used to store essential nutrients for the plant’s development.
8. Is a lily a bulb or corm?
Lily is grown from a bulb. This bulb stores nutrients and energy to support the plant’s flowering and overall growth, distinguishing it from corms.
9. Is ginger a corm?
Ginger is not a corm; it is classified as a rhizome. Rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that spread out and store nutrients, which is different from the swollen stem base typical of corms.
10. What is the common name for corms?
Corms are generally referred to by their botanical term, “corms.” They are sometimes described as swollen stem bases, but there isn’t a widely recognized common name akin to “bulb” for most corms.
