Background: The velamen radicum, a spongy and usually multiple-layered root epidermis composed of dead cells at maturity, is a textbook example of an adaptation that is typically associated with epiphytic orchids.
Scope: Based on an extensive literature review, the occurrence of this structure was documented in approximately 240 genera of terrestrial monocotyledons (162 orchid and 74 non-orchid genera) and in one genus of dicotyledons. Mapping this character on a phylogenetic tree reveals that a velamen is found throughout the monocotyledons, ranging from members of early-branching Araceae to derived Cyperaceae.
Conclusion: The current depiction of the velamen radicum in angiosperms and its almost exclusive association with the epiphytic lifestyle in orchids is misleading, which inevitably leads to a biased view of its evolution and function. The findings propose a re-evaluation of the occurrence, evolution and function of the velamen radicum in both terrestrial and epiphytic angiosperms.
Keywords: Epidermis; epiphytes; evolution; life form; orchids; roots; velamen radicum.
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