Loss of xylem aap in the form of liquid drops from the injured margins of leaves is called "Guttation "

Guttation takes place through "Hydathodes " that are a special type of stomata calles water stomata ....

Hydathodes remain open throughout day nd night !!!!

Guttation and its Occurrence

Guttation is the process of exudation of water droplets from the tips or edges of leaves, usually in the early morning hours. It occurs when the soil moisture content is high, and the humidity is low. This process is different from transpiration, which is the loss of water from the surface of leaves in the form of water vapor.

Hydathode and its Characteristics

Hydathodes are specialized pores present on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers of plants. These pores are responsible for the release of water droplets during guttation. Hydathodes are also known as water stomata or water pores.

The characteristics of hydathodes are as follows:

- They are larger than normal stomata.
- They lack guard cells.
- They are present on the tips or edges of leaves, stems, and flowers.
- They are surrounded by specialized cells that regulate the flow of water.

Mechanism of Guttation

The mechanism of guttation involves the following steps:

1. Absorption of water by roots: The roots of the plant absorb water from the soil through the process of osmosis.

2. Transportation of water to leaves: The water is transported from the roots to the leaves through the xylem vessels.

3. Release of excess water: When the water content of the soil is high, and the humidity is low, excess water is released through the hydathodes in the form of water droplets.

Conclusion

Guttation is a natural process that occurs in plants when the soil moisture content is high, and the humidity is low. It is caused by the release of excess water through the hydathodes present on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers. Hydathodes are specialized pores that lack guard cells and are surrounded by specialized cells that regulate the flow of water.