How are Water and Minerals Transported in Plants?
Plants transport water and nutrients through the xylem and phloem tissues. This is similar to the vascular system of the human body. The xylem tissue transports minerals and water to the different parts of the plant by absorbing them from the soil. On the other hand, after photosynthesis, the food is transported to the various plant parts by phloem.
Here are the major specifications of the xylem and phloem tissues as mentioned below.
Xylem
The xylem transports water and dissolved minerals absorbed from the soil upwards to the leaves and other parts of the plant. Xylem cells include tracheids and vessels, which are dead cells with hollow interiors that help in efficient water transport.
Phloem
Phloem transports dissolved organic materials produced by photosynthesis, mainly sugars and amino acids. This transport is directed towards areas of growth or storage and can be upwards or downwards depending on the plant’s needs. Phloem comprises sieve tubes, assisted by companion cells, to facilitate the transport of these organic materials.
Relevant Links:
- Transport System in Plants Class 11 Biology
- Upward Movement of Water in a Plant
- Means of Transportation In Plants
- How Do Plants Absorb Water?
- Transportation in Plants
- Phloem Transport