What is Taro Root?

Could you please explain what taro root is? I am going to make Indian curry for dinner and someone suggested to put taro root in.

Taro root is potato-like tuber grown in tropical climates and is common in West African, Caribbean and Polynesian cooking. A variety of taro, called dasheen, is grown in the southern U.S. When cooked, its somewhat acrid taste becomes nut-like. Taro can be cooked in much the same ways as potatoes. In your Indian cooking, substitute for potatoes. Its large edible leaves, called callaloo in the Caribbean, can be cooked like mustard or turnip greens.
Choose very firm roots with no sign of shrivelling or mold. Store in single layer in cool, well-ventilated place - do not refrigerate. When cooked it turns from white or cream inside to a grayish or purplish colour. Taro is a combination of potatoes and chestnuts in texture and flavour. Look for them in ethnic markets or specialty produce stores. Excellent source of potassium and fibre.