Biology Breakdown: Understanding Plant Tissues
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
Biology Breakdown
Plants have a complex internal structure, consisting of various types of tissues. It is essential to understand how these tissues work together to enable the plant’s life-sustaining functions. Knowing the respective roles of the different types of tissues can equip us with the knowledge and understanding to identify and diagnose plant health issues before they become severe.
In this article, we will explore the various plant tissues essential to sustaining life in all forms of plant life. We’ll explain what different types of tissues are and how they distinguish between one another, as well as how they function to maintain the internal structure and health of the plant.
What are Plant Tissues?
Plant tissues are the structural components which make up and support a plant.These tissues provide nutritionalsupport, structure and defense to the plant. The tissues are organized into specific layers and systems which help in the overall functioning of the plant. The four main forms of tissue in plants are dermal, vascular, ground and tissue specialised cells.
Dermal Tissue (त्वचा के टिश्यू)
Dermal tissue covers the outside of a plant and is comprised of one or two layers of cells which form a protective barrier against pests, diseases and extreme weather conditions. Dermal tissue includes both epidermal layers and a cuticle which act as a waterproof barrier. The epidermal layers of cells can contain pigment and wax which can shape how much water and light enters the tissue.
Vascular Tissue (नाली के टिश्यू)
The vascular tissue comprises the xylem and phloem which are responsible for conducting water and minerals up the plant and transporting nutrients down the plant respectively.
The Xylem consists of intricate network of hollow tubes which conduct water and dissolved minerals up the plant, to each leaf and stem and to the roots. The xylem proteins are responsible for absorption of minerals from the soil and transport of electrons from photosynthesis, which are important for plant growth.
The Phloem consists of sieve-tub like cells which transports organic solutes (sugars) down the plant and is responsible for aiding processes like photosynthesis.
Ground Tissue (जमीन के टिश्यू)
The ground tissue provides nourishment and support to the plant. It consists of three distinct types of cells and intercellular spaces for collecting water, mineral nutrients and gases. The three types of cells are parenchyma cells, collenchyma cells and sclereids.
Parenchyma cells form a majority of the inner foundation of the plant and are large, thin-walled cells responsible for photosynthesis and storage of carbohydrates.
Collenchyma cells are stiffer cells which form supporting structures and are found in areas of the plant where extra support is needed and organs of the plant are about to elongate.
Sclereids are hard, thick-walled cells which provide extra support to the tissue and are found in the endosperm of the seed and the bark of the stem.
Tissue Specialised Cells (विशेषज्ञ के टिश्यू)
Tissue specialised cells (or meristematic cells) are important for growth and development of the plant. They are small cells which can divide very rapidly and can differentiate into any type of cell. In stem cells, for example, the cells can divide and differentiate to create any type of stem cell which will help the plant to grow.
Conclusion
The different plant tissues work together as an intricate system that helps the plant to carry out life-sustaining functions. Knowing the structure and function of these different types of tissues is essential for us to understand how to properly care for and diagnose plant issues.
