A textbook states, “Each plant tissue performs only one specific function”. Class 9
A textbook states, “Each plant tissue performs only one specific function”. Class 9
Question 1.
A textbook states, “Each plant tissue performs only one specific function”. What questions would you ask to critically examine the correctness of this statement? What examples of tissues would you take to find out the answers to these questions? Class 9
Answer:
The statement is an oversimplification and is not entirely correct. To critically examine it, one would ask the following questions:
1. Does parenchyma perform only one function? - Parenchyma primarily stores food, but it also performs photosynthesis in green parts (chlorenchyma), and in aquatic plants, specialised parenchyma (aerenchyma) forms air spaces to help plants float. So parenchyma performs multiple functions - this challenges the statement.
2. Does epidermis perform only one function? - Epidermis primarily provides protection, but it also helps in transpiration (through stomata), gaseous exchange, absorption (root hair cells absorb water), and elimination of waste. So epidermis performs multiple functions.
3. Does xylem perform only one function?
- Xylem transports water and minerals, but xylem fibres also provide mechanical strength to the plant. So xylem has dual roles.
4. Does phloem perform only one function?
- Phloem transports food, but phloem parenchyma stores food, tannins, resins and latex; phloem fibres provide support. So phloem also performs multiple functions.
Conclusion: The textbook statement is incorrect. While each tissue has a primary specialised function, many plant tissues perform more than one function. The examples of parenchyma, epidermis, xylem and phloem demonstrate this clearly.