If the pericycle was missing, how would this affect a plant?

A) There would be no branch roots.
B) There would be no root hairs.
C) There would be no xylem and phloem.
D) The meristem would not be present.
E) The root would not be able to store starches.

Pericycle

A cylinder of parenchyma or sclerenchyma cells just inside the endodermis of roots, which can give rise to lateral roots, and in some cases, contribute to secondary growth.

Branch Roots

Secondary or lateral roots that originate from the primary root, increasing the root system's overall surface area for water and nutrient absorption.

Root Hairs

Thin, hair-like extensions of root epidermal cells that increase surface area for water and nutrient absorption from the soil.