Dead Element in Phloem: Phloem Fibres

Phloem is a complex tissue responsible for the transportation of food substances like glucose from leaves to other parts of the plant. The phloem consists of four main types of cells: sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem fibres, and phloem parenchyma. Out of these, the dead element present in the phloem is phloem fibres.

Phloem Fibres

Phloem fibres are long, spindle-shaped cells that provide mechanical support to the phloem. They are located on the outermost layer of the phloem and are dead at maturity. Phloem fibres are found in both primary and secondary phloem and are associated with other phloem cells like sieve tubes and companion cells.

Function of Phloem Fibres

The primary function of phloem fibres is to provide mechanical support to the phloem. As the phloem transports food substances like glucose from the leaves to other parts of the plant, it needs to withstand the pressure and weight of the transported materials. Phloem fibres provide this support, preventing the phloem from collapsing under pressure.

In addition to this, phloem fibres also protect the phloem from external damage like herbivory and physical injuries. They act as a barrier against the entry of microorganisms and other harmful agents into the phloem, which can disrupt the transportation of food substances.

Conclusion

Phloem fibres are the dead element present in the phloem. They provide mechanical support and protection to the phloem, preventing it from collapsing under pressure and external damage. Although dead, they play a crucial role in the efficient functioning of the phloem, ensuring the proper transportation of food substances throughout the plant.

Phloem fibres or phloem schlerenchyma is the dead element present in the phloem. Except this all the other 3 components are living structures..