how does meristematic tissue work
Answers
Meristematic tissue is like an unprogrammed computer--it is made of cells that haven't been assigned a role within the plant, or undifferentiated cells. These cells could do or be anything, just like that blank computer. Once a cell's role is assigned though (just like when the computer is programmed), its function becomes limited.
Properties of Meristematic CellsCells within meristematic tissues have special characteristics that make them unique when compared to cells in mature, specialized plant tissue. Cells within meristematic tissue are self-renewing, meaning that every time they divide, one new cell remains meristematic, while the second heads off to become a programmed or specialized mature cell.
Additionally, all cells within meristematic tissue are living, while other plant tissue can be made of both living and dead cells. Meristematic cells have thin cell walls, small or no vacuoles, which are stored organelles, and large prominent nucleus. This compares to the thick walls and small nucleus of programmed cells, which also have one or more large vacuoles. Also, meristematic cells contain a significant volume of dense liquid, while specialized cells have only a small quantity of think liquid.
Types of Meristematic TissueBased on its location in a plant, meristematic tissues fall into two categories: primary and secondary. Both types produce new cells through mitotic division, or the splitting of the cell in two. However, the growth pattern they produce differs. Primary meristematic tissue helps the plant increase in length or vertical growth, meaning it helps the plant grow up toward the sun and down into the soil. Secondary meristematic tissue helps the plant increase the girth or lateral growth of its stems, branches, and roots. Secondary meristematic growth is also responsible for producing the bark on woody trees.