Development of Xylem
In roots and stems, the protoxylem and metaxylem are arranged in different patterns. The main patterns of arrangement are centrarch, exarch, endarch, mesarch.
- Centrarch: In the centrarch pattern, protoxylem is seen at the center while metaxylem is arranged as a cylindrical structure around the protoxylem.
- Exarch: In this condition, the xylem develops from outside towards the center and the growth is said to occur in centripetal fashion. The metaxylem is seen close to the center of the root or stem while protoxylem is seen close to the periphery. It is commonly observed in the vascular plant’s root.
- Endarch: In this condition, the xylem develops from the inner part towards the outside and the growth is said to occur in centrifugal fashion. The protoxylem is seen close to the center of the root or stem while metaxylem is seen close to the periphery. It is commonly observed in the seed plant’s stem.
- Mesarch: In this condition, the xylem is developed in both directions from the center of the strand. The metaxylem is present near the center and the periphery while protoxylem is seen between metaxylem.
Xylem – Overview, Definition and Functions
Xylem is a vascular tissue, observed in all vascular plants. It helps in water transportation, provides strength, and stores fats and carbohydrates. Based on origin, xylem can be classified into primary xylem and secondary xylem. The xylem is composed of different cells such as tracheid, vessels, xylem fibers, and xylem parenchyma. In this article, we will learn about xylem types, functions, composition, characteristics, etc.
Table of Content
- Define Xylem
- What is Xylem?
- Diagram of Xylem
- Composition of Xylem
- Characteristics of Xylem
- Types of Xylem
- Protoxylem and Metaxylem
- Development of Xylem
- Xylems of Vascular Plants and Angiosperms
- Xylem in Monocots vs Dicot
- Factors Affecting Xylem Functions
- Functions of Xylem