What is the difference between apical meristem and lateral meristem
The apical meristem and the lateral meristem are two different types of tissue that can be found in plants. The main difference between them is their location and function.
Apical meristem is a tissue found at the tips of the stems and roots of plants. It is responsible for the primary growth of the plant, which includes an increase in length and the formation of new leaves and branches. The apical meristem is particularly important in young plants and in the growth of new shoots and roots.
On the other hand, the lateral meristem is a tissue found in the sides of the stem and root. It is responsible for the secondary growth of the plant, which includes an increase in width or girth. The lateral meristem is responsible for the formation of woody tissue in trees and shrubs.
In summary, the apical meristem and the lateral meristem are two distinct types of tissues found in plants. The apical meristem is responsible for the primary growth of the plant, while the lateral meristem is responsible for the secondary growth of the plant.
Apical meristem and lateral meristem are two different types of meristems in plants, responsible for growth and development.
1. Apical Meristem:
- Location: It is found at the tips of stems, branches, and roots.
- Growth: Apical meristem is responsible for primary growth, which occurs in length.
- Types: There are two main types of apical meristems - shoot apical meristem (found in the tips of stems and branches) and root apical meristem (found in the tips of roots).
- Functions: Apical meristem is responsible for the growth of new cells, elongation of stems and roots, and differentiation into different tissues.
- Products: It produces new leaves, stems, flowers, and roots.
2. Lateral Meristem:
- Location: It is found in the cambium layer (a thin layer of cells) in plants.
- Growth: Lateral meristem is responsible for secondary growth, which occurs in thickness.
- Types: There are two main types of lateral meristems - vascular cambium (produces secondary xylem and phloem for increased thickness of stems and roots) and cork cambium (produces cork cells for the outer protective layer of woody stems and roots).
- Functions: Lateral meristem contributes to the increase in girth (diameter) of stems and roots, adding layers of secondary tissues.
- Products: It produces secondary xylem (wood), secondary phloem, and cork.
In summary, apical meristem is responsible for primary growth (lengthening) at the tips of stems, branches, and roots, while lateral meristem is responsible for secondary growth (thickening) in the cambium layer of stems and roots.