Supporting Tissues In Plants SS2 Biology Lesson Note

The needs for supporting tissues in plants are for:

1. Definite shape;
2. Strength;
3. Rigidity;
4. Resistance against external forces such as wind and water.

TYPES OF SUPPORTING TISSUES

1. Parenchyma tissues
2. Collenchyma tissues 
3. Sclerenchyma tissues
4. Xylem tissues 
5. Phloem tissues 

1. Parenchyma Tissues

They are made up of living cells with cellulose and many air spaces within them. This is the most common and abundant plant tissue.

Functions

1. It gives firmness and turgidity to the stems of the hibiscus.
2. Stores food and water
3. Takes part in food synthesis in leaf mesophyll

2. Collenchyma Tissues

Made up of living cells which are elongated and thickened at the corners.

Functions

• Provides strength and support in young growing plants.
• Gives flexibility and resilience to plant.

3. Sclerenchyma Tissues

They are made up of thick cells containing cellulose and lignin. The tissues are rich in fibres.

Functions

1. Gives flexibility to plants.
2. Provides strength, rigidity, hardness and support to plants.

4. Xylem

Xylem tissues are found in vascular tissues of stems, roots and leaves.

Functions

1. Provides support strength and shape to the plant
2. Helps to conduct water and mineral salt from the roots to the leaves.

5. Phloem Tissues 

Also located in the vascular bundles of all plants in their roots, stems and leaves

Functions

1. Conduction of manufactured food from the site of production to the site of consumption and storage.
2. Assist in providing support to the entire plant.