Meristem refers to any region of plant tissue where cell division and growth occur. This tissue is responsible for the continuous growth, development, and differentiation of plant organs such as leaves, stems, and roots. The meristem can be divided according to its location and function which include the apical meristem, lateral meristem, and intercalary meristem.
The apical meristem is found at the tips of shoots and roots. It is responsible for the primary growth of the plant, which leads to the extension of shoot and root systems. Lateral meristem, on the other hand, is located in between the epidermal and vascular tissues. It contributes to the secondary growth of plants which involves the generation of new tissues such as woody stems and bark. Intercalary meristems are found in the inter-nodes of grass species and are responsible for the elongation of the stem between nodes.
The meristems are very important in regulating plant development. They control the rate of cell division, differentiation, and growth, which results in the formation of leaves, roots, and stems. The type of meristem and its activity level are crucial for the successful growth and development of plants.
Advances in plant biotechnology have enabled researchers to manipulate the activity of meristems to produce plants with desired traits such as increased yield and drought resistance. The use of genetic engineering and tissue culture techniques can introduce new genes or regulate the activity of specific genes. For example, the introduction of the meristem-specific WUSCHEL gene in tomato resulted in the production of more fruits and yielded higher in dry conditions.
In conclusion, meristem is a vital tissue in plant growth and development. Its function in controlling cell division and differentiation determines the developmental patterns of plants. Understanding the roles of the diverse types of meristems and the factors that regulate their activity is essential for improved plant breeding and agricultural practices.