how epiphytic roots grow on the surface of other plants for shelter only?

Question

These roots are thick, irregular, hang in air and are devoid of root caps and root hairs. instead they have a covering of dead spongy tissue know as velamen.

Answer 1

1. Epiphytic roots are aerial roots that develop in some orchids (eg. Vanda, Vanilla) which grow as epiphytes on the branches of trees.
2. They are also called ‘hygroscopic roots’.
3. They are whitish in colour and are covered with specialized spongy tissue called            Velamen, by which they absorb moisture from the atmosphere.