Apical meristem?

Question

Apical meristem?

Answer

Answer

The meristematic tissue present at the tips of root, stem and their branches that helps in the axial growth of a plant is called apical meristem.

Answer

Apical Meristem: Structure and Function

The apical meristem is a type of meristem found in the tips of stems and roots of plants. It is responsible for the growth of the plant in length, also known as primary growth. The apical meristem is composed of undifferentiated cells that continuously divide and differentiate into various types of cells, allowing the plant to increase in height or length.

Structure:
The apical meristem is located at the apices, or tips, of plant stems and roots. It consists of a small group of actively dividing cells called meristematic cells. These cells are small, thin-walled, and have a dense cytoplasm. They lack specialized structures and organelles, allowing them to divide rapidly.

Function:
The apical meristem plays a crucial role in the primary growth of plants. It is responsible for the following functions:

1. Cell Division: The meristematic cells in the apical meristem undergo rapid cell division through mitosis. This division produces new cells that contribute to the growth of the plant.

2. Elongation: As the meristematic cells divide, the newly formed cells elongate, leading to an increase in the length of stems and roots. This elongation is facilitated by the expansion and stretching of cell walls.

3. Differentiation: As the cells move away from the apical meristem, they undergo differentiation into specialized cell types. These differentiated cells form various tissues and organs, such as epidermis, cortex, xylem, and phloem.

4. Organ Formation: The apical meristem is responsible for the initiation and development of new leaves, branches, and flowers. The meristematic cells at the tips of stems and roots give rise to lateral meristems, which contribute to secondary growth and the formation of woody tissues.

5. Protection: The apical meristem is covered by a protective layer called the root cap (in roots) or the shoot apex (in stems). These structures prevent damage to the delicate meristematic cells during the plant's growth through the soil or air.

In conclusion, the apical meristem is a crucial part of plant growth and development. Its continuous division and differentiation contribute to the elongation of stems and roots, the formation of new organs, and the overall increase in plant height or length.

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