T i s s u e

In this chapter you will learn about tissue:  the "groups of cells performing a similar function".  Most plants have organs:  roots, stems, and leaves, and many have flowers. These plant organs are composed of tissues.  Each tissue is classified by structure, origin, or function.  We will look at major kinds of tissues found in higher plants and the cells associated with them.

At the end of this chapter the successful student will be able to

• Describe Meristematic tissue including Apical,  Lateral, and Intercalary Meristems.
• Describe and list simple tissues produced by Meristems 
• Describe complex conducting tissues of plants and list the function of each component
• List and describe complex tissues of plants that are neither Meristematic nor conducting tissues.
• Assignments
• Glossary

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Meristematic Tissue

• Meristems - Permanent regions of active cell division.
  • Apical Meristems - Found at the tips of roots and shoots.
    • Increase in length as the apical meristems produce new cells (primary growth).
      • Primary Meristems
        • Protoderm
        • Ground Meristem
        • Procambium
  • Lateral Meristems - Produce tissues that increase the girth of roots and stems.
    • Secondary Growth
      • Vascular Cambium - Produces secondary tissues that function primarily in support and conduction. 
        Thin cylindrical cells.
      • Cork Cambium - Lies outside vascular cambium just inside the outer bark.
  • Grasses and related plants do not have vascular cambium or cork cambium, but do have apical meristems in the vicinity of the nodes.
    • Intercalary meristems
      • Develop at intervals along stems where they add to stem length.

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Simple Tissues produced by Meristems