Taxonomy, Anatomy, Physiology and Nutritional Aspects

This chapter deals with the taxonomy, anatomy, physiology and nutritional aspects of tropical roots and tubers. Most of the nearly 50 known roots and tuber crops belong to the Asteraceace and the Apiaceae family, followed by Fabaceae. The process of identification of plants deals with revealing an unknown plant's identity by comparing it with other known plants based on specific features described in monographs, manuals, revisions, etc., herbariums or other live samples. The body plan of a plant established during embryogenesis includes distinct below and above-ground structure the roots and the shoots. Internal activities of a plant including life-associated fundamental physical and chemical processes such as respiration, photosynthesis, nutrition, and transpiration. Being a fair source of nutrients, tubers contribute significantly to food and nutritional security.