Vascular plants, also known as higher plants, form a significant fraction of the plant kingdom. They are distinguished by their special tissues, namely the phloem and the xylem. Their efficiency and robustness stem from these tissue types that are responsible for the transport of nutrients and water within the plant.
The xylem is responsible for conducting water and mineral salts from the roots to the leaves. It is equipped with a network of flexible cells that allow it to draw water by capillary action. This mechanism explains how water reaches the highest points of even the tallest trees, such as the redwoods in California. Xylem also plays a role in providing structural support to the plant by keeping it turgid.
On the other hand, the phloem facilitates the movement of food from the leaves to the parts of the plant that lack a sufficient supply of nutrients. It is crucial for the growth and development of the plant as a whole. The phloem works by absorbing the sugars and other food substances produced by photosynthesis in the leaves and distributing them to other parts of the plant.
Photosynthesis is the process by which vascular plants make their food. During this process, the chlorophyll in the leaves traps sunlight, and the energy produced initiates a series of chemical reactions that convert carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water to glucose and oxygen. The glucose produced in photosynthesis is transported to other parts of the plant through the phloem.
Moreover, vascular plants have specialized structures that facilitate their reproduction. They produce flowers or cones that bear seeds crucial for their survival and propagation.
In conclusion, vascular plants are the most common and sophisticated type of plant on earth. They have a distinct structural and functional system that enables their growth, development, and survival in various environments. With their phloem, xylem, and ability to undergo photosynthesis, vascular plants continue to captivate the scientific community with their wonders.#16#