5.3 PLANT TISSUES:

"A group of cells having a common origin and performing a similar function or a set of similar functions, is defined as a tissue'

The plant body is composed of different organs like root, stem, leaf and flower.

Each organ is made up of various types of plant tissues.

 

Types of Tissues:

The plant tissues are classified into two fundamental types:

1) Meristematic tissue

2) Permanent tissue.

 

5.3.1 Meristematic Tissue:

(Greek : meristos = to divide)

A tissue which consists of dividing cells or the cells having power of cell division is called the meristematic tissue.

 

Characteristics of Meristematic Tissue:

1. The component cells of meristematic tissue have ability to divide.
2. The cells are small in size, isodiametric, oval or polygonal in shape.
3. They are arranged compactly without intercellular spaces.
4. They have thin and elastic cell walls that are made up of cellulose.
5. Secondary wall material is not deposited.
6. Each cell has a prominent nucleus and dense cytoplasm.
7. Vacuoles are either absent or are very small in size.
8. Number of mitochondria is more and the rate of respiration is very high because of rapid metabolism.
9. There is very little reserve food in these cells.