Anatomy of Dicot Stem

Cambium Function

• Primary function is to facilitate secondary growth by producing new layers of xylem and phloem.
• Acts as a lateral meristem, adding girth to the stem through cell division.

Structural Support

• Collenchyma and sclerenchyma tissues provide structural support in a dicot stem.
• Collenchyma offers flexible support, while sclerenchyma provides rigid strength.

Vascular Arrangement

• Vascular bundles are usually arranged in a circular pattern in a dicot stem.
• Each bundle contains xylem (toward the interior) and phloem (toward the exterior), separated by cambium.

Protective Layer

• The outermost layer, known as the epidermis, acts as a protective covering in a dicot stem.
• Can be covered by a waxy cuticle to reduce water loss and shield against pathogens.

Nutrient Transport

• Phloem tissue is primarily involved in the transport of organic nutrients, such as carbohydrates.
• Sieve tubes in the phloem facilitate the movement of sugars produced during photosynthesis.

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of dicot stems with this quiz. Explore the roles of different tissues such as cambium and vascular arrangements, as well as protective layers and nutrient transport mechanisms. Challenge yourself to identify key structural components in dicot stems.