The stem is one of the main parts of a plant that is responsible for providing support, transporting water and nutrients, and storing food. It is typically above ground and connects the plant's roots to its leaves and flowers. The anatomy of a stem can vary depending on the type of plant, but some common features include:
1. Epidermis: The outermost layer of cells on the stem that protects the plant from damage and helps regulate water loss.
2. Cortex: The layer of tissue beneath the epidermis that provides support and stores carbohydrates.
3. Vascular bundles: These are clusters of xylem and phloem tissues that transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.
4. Xylem: This tissue is responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
5. Phloem: The phloem tissue transports sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant.
6. Cambium: A layer of tissue that divides and produces new cells for growth and repair.
7. Pith: The central region of the stem that stores food and provides structural support.
Overall, the stem plays a crucial role in the plant's growth and survival by providing structural support, transporting essential nutrients, and storing energy.
Anatomy of the stem
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