Vascular tissues are essential for plant survival because they act as the plant’s transport system, allowing water, minerals, and food to move throughout the plant.
Here’s why they are important:
- Transport of water and minerals:
The xylem carries water and minerals from the roots to the leaves, which are needed for photosynthesis and other life processes. - Transport of food:
The phloem distributes the sugars made in the leaves to other parts of the plant, providing energy for growth and repair. - Support and strength:
Vascular tissues, especially the xylem, have thick walls that help the plant stay upright and resist bending. - Growth and development:
The cambium (found between xylem and phloem in dicots) produces new vascular tissue, helping stems and roots grow thicker. - Adaptation to land life:
Vascular tissues allow plants to grow tall and live away from water sources because they can transport water internally.
In short, vascular tissues are vital because they help plants move materials, stay strong, and grow — all of which are necessary for survival.