TYPES OF SIMPLE AND COMPLEX TISSUES

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There are four main types of simple tissues in plants and four main types of complex tissues.

Simple Tissues:

1. Parenchyma- This is the most common type of simple tissue and consists of living cells that usually have thin cell walls. They have a variety of functions such as photosynthesis, storage, and healing.

2. Collenchyma- Collenchyma cells provide support to the plant. They have unevenly thickened cell walls and elongated cells which allow them to stretch and bend without breaking.

3. Sclerenchyma- These cells also provide support to the plant but have a more rigid cell wall. They are often dead at maturity and have very thick and lignified walls.

4. Epidermis- This type of tissue covers the entire surface of the plant and protects it from damage. It is made up of living cells that secrete a waxy cuticle to prevent water loss.

Complex Tissues:

1. Xylem- This tissue transports water and nutrients from the roots to the rest of the plant. It consists of four different cell types including vessels, tracheids, fibers, and parenchyma cells.

2. Phloem- This tissue transports food and nutrients from the leaves to the rest of the plant. It consists of four different cell types including sieve elements, companion cells, fibers, and parenchyma cells.

3. Meristem- This tissue is responsible for growth in the plant. There are two main types of meristem- the apical meristem found at the tips of shoots and roots, and the lateral meristem which is responsible for additional growth in the stems and roots.

4. Epidermal- This type of tissue forms the outermost layer of the plant and is responsible for protecting it from the environment. It includes both living and dead cells and can have hairs or cuticles to further protect the plant.