Importance of Dermal Tissue: Plant’s Protective Barrier

dermal plant tissue

covering of the plant (epidermis)

Dermal tissue in plants is the outermost layer of cells that covers the entire surface of a plant, including leaves, stems, and roots. It is also referred to as the epidermis. The dermal tissue forms a protective barrier that helps prevent water loss, protect against pathogens, regulate gas exchange, and absorb nutrients.

There are two types of dermal tissues in plants: the epidermis and the periderm. The epidermis is present in all aerial parts of a plant while the periderm is present in the roots and stems of woody plants.

The epidermis is made up of a single layer of cells that are tightly packed together. The cells are irregularly shaped and have thin walls, which makes them ideal for rapid gas exchange. The epidermal cells also contain specialized structures such as trichomes, which provide additional protection against herbivores and harmful environmental conditions. The cuticle is another important structure found on the epidermis, which helps reduce water loss and protects against pathogens.

The periderm, on the other hand, is a thicker layer of cells that replace the epidermis in older stems and roots. It is made up of cork cells and phelloderm cells, which provide additional protection against water loss and pathogens.

In summary, the dermal tissue in plants plays a vital role in protecting the plant’s internal structures, regulating gas exchange, and facilitating nutrient absorption.

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