Vascular ray

Vascular ray is a term used in botany to describe a radial arrangement of cells in the vascular system of plants. These rays are essential for the transport of nutrients and water, as well as for the structural integrity of the plant.

Structure

Vascular rays are composed of parenchyma cells, which are living cells that have the ability to divide and differentiate into various types of cells. These rays extend radially from the center of the stem or root towards the periphery, and are typically one cell thick. However, in some species, they can be several cells thick.

Function

The primary function of vascular rays is to transport nutrients and water radially across the plant. They facilitate the movement of substances from the xylem (which transports water and minerals) to the phloem (which transports sugars and other nutrients). In addition to this, vascular rays also play a role in the storage of nutrients and the healing of wounds.

Significance in Wood Anatomy

In wood anatomy, the presence and characteristics of vascular rays can be used to identify different species of trees. The size, shape, and arrangement of these rays can vary greatly between species, making them a useful tool for dendrology (the study of wooded plants).

See Also

• Vascular tissue
• Xylem
• Phloem
• Parenchyma