Phloem: The Lifeline for Nutrient Transport in Plants

Phloem

Part of the vascular bundle; nutrients (food)

Phloem is a type of specialized plant tissue that transports nutrients and organic compounds, such as sugars and amino acids, from the leaves and other photosynthetic tissues to other parts of the plant.

Phloem consists of long, slender cells called sieve tubes, which are connected end-to-end to form a continuous pipeline throughout the plant. In addition to the sieve tubes, phloem also contains companion cells, which are located adjacent to the sieve tubes and provide metabolic support and maintain the integrity of the sieve tubes.

The movement of nutrients through phloem is powered by transpiration and photosynthesis. The pressure gradient created by the movement of water from the roots to the leaves pulls the sugars and other organic compounds through the phloem. This process is called translocation and is aided by the activity of companion cells.

In summary, phloem is a complex and important tissue system in plants that allows for the transport of nutrients throughout the organism.

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