What type of root system do annual grasses exhibit?

Annual grasses typically exhibit fibrous root systems. This type of root system is characterized by many thin, branching roots that spread out horizontally close to the soil surface, rather than a single dominant root like a taproot. Fibrous roots enable these plants to efficiently absorb water and nutrients from the upper soil layers, which is crucial for their rapid growth and development within a single growing season.

The structure of a fibrous root system also helps to prevent soil erosion, as the dense network of roots holds the soil in place. This system is particularly advantageous for annual grasses, as they grow quickly and need to establish roots swiftly to support their life cycle, which is completed in just one year. This contrasts with taproots, tubers, or woody branches, which serve different ecological functions and are typically found in other types of plants.