Xylem

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Xylem is one of the two types of vascular tissue in vascular plants, the other being phloem. The primary function of xylem is to transport water and mineral nutrients from the roots to the rest of the plant and to provide mechanical support. The word "xylem" is derived from the Greek word "xylon," meaning wood; its cells are typically elongated and form wood in trees.

Structure

Xylem tissue consists of several different types of cells:

• Tracheids: These are elongated cells in the xylem of vascular plants that serve in the transport of water and mineral salts.
• Vessel elements: These are shorter, wider cells that are connected end-to-end to form continuous tubes known as vessels.
• Xylem parenchyma: These cells are involved in the storage and lateral transport of nutrients.
• Xylem fibers: These provide structural support to the plant.

Function

The primary function of xylem is the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves. This process is driven by transpiration, which creates a negative pressure in the leaf, pulling water upward through the xylem vessels. Additionally, xylem provides structural support to the plant, helping it to maintain its shape and resist various mechanical stresses.

Types of Xylem

Xylem can be classified into two types:

• Primary xylem: This is formed during the primary growth of the plant from the procambium.
• Secondary xylem: This is formed during the secondary growth from the vascular cambium and contributes to the thickening of the plant stem and root.

Development

Xylem development involves the differentiation of cells from the procambium and vascular cambium. The process includes the elongation of cells, thickening of cell walls, and the eventual death of the cell, leaving behind a hollow tube that facilitates water transport.

Significance in Plant Physiology

Xylem plays a crucial role in plant physiology by ensuring the efficient transport of water and nutrients, which are essential for photosynthesis and other metabolic processes. The structural support provided by xylem also allows plants to grow taller and spread their leaves to capture more sunlight.

Comparison with Phloem

While xylem is responsible for the upward transport of water and minerals, phloem is responsible for the downward and lateral transport of organic nutrients, particularly sucrose, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Together, xylem and phloem form the vascular system of plants, facilitating the distribution of essential substances throughout the organism.

See Also

• Vascular tissue
• Phloem
• Transpiration
• Vascular cambium
• Procambium
• Plant physiology