Tissues in Plants and Animals

Study Notes

Differences Between Plants and Animals

Plants possess cell walls made of cellulose; animals have flexible cell membranes.
Animals have specialized sensory organs for movement and interaction; plants lack complex sensory systems.

Supportive Tissue in Plants

Plants require significant supportive tissue (such as sclerenchyma) to maintain structure due to their immobile nature.
This tissue helps plants withstand environmental forces like wind and rain.

Cell Growth in Plants vs. Animals

Plants primarily grow through cell division in meristems; animals grow mainly by cell enlargement.
Animals have a fixed number of cells after development, while plants can continue growing throughout their life.

Specialization of Organs in Animals

Complex animals have highly specialized organs and systems to perform specific functions efficiently due to greater mobility requirements.
Plants, being stationary, have less need for specialized organ systems as they rely on environmental factors for growth and reproduction.

Growth Patterns in Plants

Plants exhibit indeterminate growth, allowing them to grow continuously in height and width throughout their life.
Growth occurs at specific regions called meristems, enabling plants to adapt to their surroundings.

Presence of Dead Cells in Plant Tissues

Plants contain more dead cells (e.g., in xylem) for structural support and water transportation, enhancing rigidity.
These cells provide strength while minimizing the metabolic cost associated with living tissues.

Adaptations for Stationary Existence in Plants

Plants have developed structures (like roots and stems) that anchor them and gather resources, while animals evolved mobility for survival and resource finding.
Stationary plants rely on adaptations such as photosynthesis and nutrient storage for sustainability.

Role of Meristematic Tissue

Meristematic tissue is responsible for the continuous growth of plants, comprising undifferentiated cells capable of division.
It is crucial for the development of all plant organs and tissues throughout a plant's life.

Importance of Meristematic Tissues

These tissues enable regeneration and repair, allowing plants to grow new leaves, flowers, and roots.
Meristematic tissues are essential for primary growth (length) and secondary growth (girth) in plants.

Effects of Root Tip Removal

Removing the tips of roots disrupts growth and nutrient absorption, as meristems in the roots are responsible for new root growth.
It can hinder the plant's overall health and lead to reduced stability and nutrient uptake.

Locations of Meristematic Tissues

Meristematic tissues are primarily located at the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristems) and in the vascular and cork cambium for secondary growth.

Classification of Meristems

Lateral meristems contribute to thickness (cambium), while intercalary meristems facilitate growth near leaf bases and nodes, allowing for rapid growth after mowing.

Description

Explore the differences in tissues between plants and animals. Discover why plants have more supportive tissue with dead cells while animals have more living tissues. Learn about the mobility and structural differences between plant and animal tissues.