The correct answer is: a) Root vegetable.
Tapioca is a starch extracted from the cassava plant, a shrub native to South America. The cassava plant is a root vegetable, and the starch is extracted from the roots of the plant. Tapioca is a white, powdery substance that is used in a variety of dishes, including puddings, pies, and breads. It is also used as a thickening agent in soups and stews.
Option b) is incorrect because tapioca is not a leafy vegetable. Leafy vegetables are vegetables that have leaves as their main edible part. Examples of leafy vegetables include lettuce, spinach, and kale.
Option c) is incorrect because tapioca is not a fruiting vegetable. Fruiting vegetables are vegetables that have fruits as their main edible part. Examples of fruiting vegetables include tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.
Option d) is incorrect because tapioca is not a spice crop. Spice crops are plants that are grown for their spices, which are used to flavor food. Examples of spice crops include cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.