Permanent tissues are living tissues. While they lose the ability to divide and grow further, they remain alive and perform specialized functions within the plant body.
Here's why:
- Specialized Cells: Permanent tissues are made up of cells that have differentiated into specific roles, such as conducting water and nutrients (xylem), transporting sugars (phloem), or providing support (sclerenchyma).
- Metabolic Activity: These cells continue to carry out metabolic processes, like respiration and photosynthesis, necessary for their survival.
- Essential Functions: Permanent tissues are crucial for the plant's overall survival and growth. They perform vital functions like structural support, transport, and protection.
Examples of Permanent Tissues:
- Xylem: Transports water and minerals from roots to leaves.
- Phloem: Transports sugars produced during photosynthesis from leaves to other parts of the plant.
- Parenchyma: Provides storage, photosynthesis, and gas exchange.
- Collenchyma: Provides support and flexibility to young stems and leaves.
- Sclerenchyma: Provides strength and rigidity to mature plant parts.
While permanent tissues cannot divide and grow further, they remain essential for the plant's well-being. They continue to perform their specialized functions, making them vital components of a plant's life.
