Anatomy of the leaf and how the vasicular bundles is arranged in both dicot and monocot
Leaves are the main site of photosynthesis in plants and are made up of several layers of cells. The outer layer of cells is called the epidermis and is usually covered by a waxy cuticle to prevent water loss. The inner layers of cells, collectively known as the mesophyll, contain chloroplasts where photosynthesis occurs.
Vascular bundles are the bundles of xylem and phloem vessels that transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant. In dicot leaves, the vascular bundles are arranged in a network pattern called reticulate venation, with the bundles branching and merging repeatedly throughout the leaf. This network pattern is characteristic of dicotyledonous plants, such as maple trees and roses.
In monocot leaves, the vascular bundles are arranged in a parallel pattern, running parallel to the length of the leaf. This parallel venation is characteristic of monocotyledonous plants, such as grasses and lilies.
Overall, the arrangement of vascular bundles in leaves is important for efficient transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.