What is a fibrous root system and where is it commonly found?

A fibrous root system is a type of root system made up of many thin roots of nearly equal size that grow from the base of the stem. Unlike a taproot system, it does not have one main central root.

Fibrous roots usually spread close to the surface of the soil and help the plant absorb water and minerals efficiently from the upper soil layers. They also hold soil particles together and provide support to the plant. This type of root system is commonly found in grasses, wheat, rice, maize, and many monocot plants.

The presence of several similar-sized roots growing together is the main feature used to identify a fibrous root system.