Apical meristem in roots and shoots
Where does rapid cell division in land plants occur?
Apical meristem is the region of growth found at the tips of roots and shoots of plants. The apical meristem contains undifferentiated cells that continuously divide and differentiate into specialized cells, giving rise to new tissue that contributes to the elongation of the plant.
The apical meristem in roots is responsible for primary growth, which includes the growth of the root both in length and diameter. The apical meristem in roots produces cells that differentiate into the root cap, the epidermis, cortex, endodermis, and vascular tissues. The root cap serves to protect the growing root tip from abrasion and provides the plant with signals about the environment. The epidermis covers the primary body of the root, and it absorbs water and nutrients from the soil. The cortex stores carbohydrates and other nutrients and supports the vascular tissue. The endodermis controls the movement of water and dissolved minerals into the vascular cylinder. The vascular tissue is responsible for transporting water, minerals, and nutrients up from the roots and into the plant.
The apical meristem in shoots is responsible for primary and secondary growth. The primary growth refers to the lengthening of the stem, whereas the secondary growth refers to the thickening of the stem. The apical meristem of the stem produces cells that differentiate into the leaves, stems, and branches. Leaves are responsible for photosynthesis, while stems and branches support the plant and transport water and nutrients.
In summary, the apical meristem is essential for plant growth and development, and it plays a critical role in determining the shape, size, and structure of the plant.
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