Question

Which one of the following is a type of tissue system? (a) Parenchyma (b) Sclerenchyma (c) Vascular (d) All of these

Short answer

The type of tissue system among the given options is (c) Vascular.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Tissue Systems

Tissue systems are a group of tissues that perform a specific function. They are broadly classified into three types: dermal, fundamental and vascular. The dermal tissue system is the outer covering of plants, the fundamental tissue system forms the bulk of the plant, and the vascular tissue system forwards fluids and nutrients.

Analyzing Options

Parenchyma and Sclerenchyma are types of cells, not tissue systems. They belong to the fundamental tissue system. The vascular option refers to a tissue system.

Elimination

Based on the classifications, the option 'Vascular' is the only true tissue system out of the given options. Therefore, Parenchyma, and Sclerenchyma can be eliminated.

Key concepts

Vascular Tissue System

The vascular tissue system is a crucial component of plant anatomy. It is responsible for the transport of water, minerals, and nutrients throughout the plant. The main components of this system are xylem and phloem.
Xylem is mainly responsible for the upward movement of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. This process is essential for maintaining plant turgidity and facilitating photosynthesis. On the other hand, phloem is responsible for the transport of organic nutrients, primarily sugars, which are the products of photosynthesis, from the leaves to other parts of the plant.
One fascinating aspect of the vascular tissue system is its role in plant growth and repair. Because it extends throughout the plant, it helps to distribute growth regulators and hormones, allowing plants to adapt to their environment. This system is analogous to the circulatory system in animals and is vital for plant health and development.

Plant Anatomy

Understanding plant anatomy involves exploring the structure and function of various plant parts. From roots to leaves, each part is anatomically designed to optimize its role in the plant's life cycle.
For example, roots anchor the plant and absorb water and minerals from the soil. Stems support leaves and flowers and act as conduits for transporting nutrients and water. Leaves are the primary sites of photosynthesis, where sunlight is converted into chemical energy.
In plant anatomy, tissues are organized into systems, such as the vascular, dermal, and ground tissue systems. Each tissue system has a distinct role in maintaining the plant's physiological functions.

• The dermal tissue system forms the plant's outer protective layer, preventing water loss and providing a barrier against pathogens.
• The vascular tissue system ensures the distribution of water, minerals, and organic nutrients.
• The ground tissue system, or fundamental tissue system, fills the interior of the plant and is involved in storage, support, and photosynthesis.

Understanding these anatomical features helps one appreciate the complexity and efficiency of plants as living organisms.

Fundamental Tissue System

The fundamental, or ground tissue system, comprises the majority of the plant's internal structure. It plays an essential role in photosynthesis, storage, and support.
The fundamental tissue system is primarily composed of three cell types: parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Each of these cell types has unique functions.

• Parenchyma cells are the most common and versatile plant cells, involved in photosynthesis, storage, and healing. They are living cells and can divide and differentiate into other cell types when needed.
• Collenchyma cells provide flexible support, allowing young plants to grow and elongate while still being sturdy.
• Sclerenchyma cells are dead cells that provide rigid support, contributing to the plant's overall structural integrity.

Through these various cell types, the fundamental tissue system assists in the formation and sustenance of plant organs. This system underscores the complexity of plants and their ability to perform essential life processes.