Question

A type of tissue that is rich in ECM or has cells with a thick cell wall is a. dermal tissue in plants. b. ground tissue in plants. c. nervous tissue in animals. d. connective tissue in animals. e. both b and d.

Short answer

The correct answer is d. Connective tissue in animals.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the options

Review every option closely, knowing that the ECM is the non-cellular component in every tissue type. It's also key to understand the structure of these tissues.

Analyzing the options

Discuss each option individually: \n a. Dermal tissue in plants: This tissue acts more as a protective layer and isn't notably rich in ECM or thick-walled.\n b. Ground tissue in plants: Ground tissue is where photosynthesis and storage happens and cells can have thick walls, but it's not exceptionally rich in ECM.\n c. Nervous tissue in animals: Nervous tissue is more about signal transmission than structure or support, so it wouldn't be markedly high in ECM or have thick-walled cells.\n d. Connective tissue in animals: This is a kind of tissue that forms the body's 'framework', providing support and structure. It's known for its abundance in ECM.\n e. Both b and d: As stated above, while ground tissue can have thick walled cells, it does not have a significant amount of ECM, hence both options are not correct.

Making a decision

After examining all possibilities, conclude that the tissue that is rich in ECM and has cells with thick cell walls would be the connective tissue in animals.

Key concepts

Connective Tissue in Animals

Connective tissue is a vital component in the animal body, playing a critical role in structuring and supporting various organs and systems. Unlike other types of tissues that may be defined by a dense population of cells, connective tissue is characterized by fewer cells and a rich extracellular matrix (ECM).

The ECM itself is a network composed of proteins like collagen and elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, which provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells. This matrix takes up more space than the cells in connective tissue and distinguishes it from tissues with denser cell populations.

Connective tissue variants include bone, blood, adipose tissue, cartilage, and tendons, each with a unique composition tailored to their specific functions. For instance, bone tissue's ECM is mineralized, providing a rigid structure, while tendons have a fibrous ECM giving them the flexibility and strength needed to connect muscles to bones.

Effective understanding of connective tissue and its significance in the animal body enables a clearer comprehension of how animals maintain their physical integrity and protect their internal organs, alongside other functions such as storing energy, transporting substances, and repairing tissues.

Tissue Types in Biology

Tissue types in biology categorize the different specialized cell groups that perform distinct functions within an organism. There are four basic tissue types in animals: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

Epithelial Tissue

This type forms the protective outer layers of the body and internal cavities. They are tightly packed, serving as barriers against physical and microbial invaders and facilitating the absorption and transport of substances.

Muscle Tissue

Muscle tissue is characterized by its ability to contract, producing movement. It is categorized into skeletal, cardiac, and smooth types based on location and control (voluntary or involuntary).

Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is involved in transmitting signals throughout the body. Neurons, the primary cells in this tissue, receive and send electrical impulses, while glial cells provide support and insulation.

Connective Tissue

Already partially covered in a previous section, connective tissue includes bone, cartilage, blood, and others, each with various amounts of ECM that helps in support and protection.

Understanding the different types of tissues in biology is crucial for comprehending how complex organisms function and how various systems within the body interact with each other for homeostasis and survival.

Plant Tissues

Plant tissues, while different from animal tissues in structure and function, are similarly organized into groups with specific roles. There are three main types of tissues in plants: dermal, vascular, and ground tissues.

Dermal Tissue

Dermal tissue is the protective outer layer, similar to animal epithelium, and includes structures like the epidermis and cork. It serves as the first line of defense against environmental elements and pathogens and helps in water retention.

Vascular Tissue

Vascular tissue is involved in the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars within the plant and includes the xylem and phloem. The xylem primarily transports water and minerals from roots to leaves, while the phloem distributes sugars and other metabolic products.

Ground Tissue

Ground tissue fills the spaces between the dermal and vascular tissues and serves various functions including photosynthesis, storage, and support. Cells within the ground tissue, such as parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma, can have thick cell walls, especially in cases where they need to provide additional support.

Exploring plant tissues aids in understanding the complexities of plant life, including how they grow, develop, and respond to their environment. It is in these tissues that much of the activity crucial to plant life is carried out, from the photosynthesis that captures the energy from sunlight to the structural support that allows plants to reach upwards and flourish.