What are the components of transport system in highly organised plants

General
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what are the components of transport system in highly organised plants

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What are the components of the transport system in highly organised plants?

Answer: In highly organised plants, the transport system is essential for the distribution of water, nutrients, and organic compounds throughout the plant body. This system is comprised of two main components: the xylem and the phloem. Let’s delve into each component in detail:

1. Xylem:
The xylem is responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. It consists of various specialized cells that work together to facilitate this upward movement. The main components of the xylem include:

  • Tracheids: These are elongated, tube-like cells with thick, lignified walls. They are dead at maturity and have pits that allow water to move laterally between cells.
  • Vessel Elements: These are shorter, wider cells that form continuous tubes called vessels. They are also dead at maturity and have perforation plates at their ends, which allow for efficient water transport.
  • Xylem Parenchyma: These are living cells that store nutrients and assist in the lateral movement of water and solutes.
  • Xylem Fibers: These provide structural support to the plant.

2. Phloem:
The phloem is responsible for the transport of organic compounds, primarily sugars produced during photosynthesis, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. The main components of the phloem include:

  • Sieve Tube Elements: These are elongated cells that form a continuous column called the sieve tube. They have sieve plates at their ends with pores that facilitate the flow of phloem sap. Unlike xylem cells, sieve tube elements are alive but lack a nucleus.
  • Companion Cells: These are specialized parenchyma cells closely associated with sieve tube elements. They have a nucleus and provide metabolic support to the sieve tube elements.
  • Phloem Parenchyma: These cells store nutrients and help in the lateral movement of substances within the phloem.
  • Phloem Fibers: These provide structural support to the phloem tissue.

Additional Components:
Apart from the xylem and phloem, the transport system in highly organised plants also includes:

  • Roots: They absorb water and minerals from the soil and transport them to the xylem.
  • Stems: They provide a conduit for the upward and downward movement of substances through the xylem and phloem.
  • Leaves: They are the primary sites for photosynthesis and the production of organic compounds that are transported through the phloem.

Conclusion:
The transport system in highly organised plants is a complex and efficient network that ensures the distribution of essential substances to various parts of the plant. The xylem and phloem, along with the supportive structures of roots, stems, and leaves, work in harmony to maintain the plant’s growth, development, and overall health.