Question

Permanent tissues, which have many different types of cells are called (a) Complex tissues (b) Simple tissues (c) Meristematic tissues (d) All of these

Short answer

The kind of permanent tissues with many different types of cells are (a) Complex tissues.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Different Tissue Types

In plant biology, there are three fundamental types of tissues: simple tissues, complex tissues, and meristematic tissues. Simple tissues consist of similar types of cells performing similar functions. On the other hand, meristematic tissues are composed of actively dividing cells that aid in the plant's growth. Complex tissues, however, are made up of various types of cells performing different functions.

Identifying the Correct Tissue Type

Considering the definitions of each tissue type from step 1, we need to look for a tissue that includes many different types of cells. As defined, we know that is not a characteristic of simple tissues nor meristematic tissues, as they contain similar types of cells only. Hence, the type of tissues having many different types of cells are complex tissues.

Key concepts

Complex tissues

In the study of plant biology, complex tissues are integral components that serve multiple functional roles within the structure of a plant. Unlike simple tissues, which are composed of similar types of cells, complex tissues are formed by a combination of different types of cells working together harmoniously. This unique composition allows complex tissues to perform a variety of functions that are essential to a plant’s survival.

For instance, complex tissues such as xylem and phloem play a crucial role in the transportation of water, minerals, and nutrients throughout the plant. Xylem is primarily responsible for the upward movement of water and soluble mineral nutrients from the roots, while phloem transports sugars and metabolic byproducts from the leaves to other parts of the plant. The diversified cell types in complex tissues such as tracheids, vessel elements, sieve tubes, and companion cells are structurally and functionally specialized, contributing to the tissue's overall performance.

Importance in NEET Biology

For those preparing for competitive exams like NEET, understanding the structure and function of complex tissues can provide significant insights into plant physiology, which is a critical component of the syllabus.

Simple tissues

Simple tissues in plants can be seen as the basic building blocks of the plant structure. They are characterized by their homogeneity, consisting of one type of cell that performs a specific function. These tissues are ubiquitously present and form a significant part of the plant.

Examples of simple tissues include parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Parenchyma cells are versatile and involved in various functions like photosynthesis, storage, and tissue repair due to their ability to divide. Collenchyma cells, distinguished by their thicker cell walls, provide structural support to growing parts of the plant. Sclerenchyma cells are highly specialized for support, with thickened, lignified walls, making them rigid and strong. This specialization allows them to withstand various stresses and strains, providing the plant with the necessary rigidity.

Role in Plant Growth

For a student, the knowledge of simple tissues is fundamental to understanding how various parts of the plant perform their functions and contribute to the overall growth and development of the plant.

Meristematic tissues

Meristematic tissues are regions of intense activity in plants where rapid cell division occurs, leading to plant growth. These tissues are the growth engines of the plant, found in areas such as the tips of roots and shoots (known as apical meristems), the cambium layer, and the intercalary meristems at the base of leaves or internodes.

The cells in meristematic tissue are small, densely packed, and lack large vacuoles, characteristics that enable them to divide rapidly and continually. As these cells mature and differentiate, they give rise to various specialized tissues that make up the plant. Thus, meristematic tissues are fundamental to the plant's ability to grow and regenerate.

Significance in Plant Development

Understanding meristematic tissues is pivotal for students aiming for exams like NEET, as it ties into key concepts of plant development, regeneration, and the principles of botany, making it an essential topic in the biology curriculum.