Vascular Plant Structure, Growth, Development

This set of flashcards is designed to cover key terminology and concepts related to the structure, growth, and development of vascular plants based on the lecture notes.

Structure determines function

The idea that natural selection has shaped plant structures to support their functions at the organ, tissue, and cellular levels.

Hierarchical organization

The arrangement of biological systems from the fundamental unit of life, the cell, to tissues, and then to organs.

Vascular plant organs

Includes roots, stems, and leaves, which adapt to acquire nutrients from the environment.

Root system

Part of a vascular plant that helps in anchoring the plant, absorbing nutrients and water, and storing carbohydrates.

Taproot system

A root system where the primary root grows larger and deeper, found in tall plants with large shoot masses.

Fibrous root system

A root structure characterized by a network of thin roots that spread out below the surface, typical in smaller or trailing plants.

Root hairs

Finger-like extensions of epidermal cells near root tips that increase the root's surface area for absorption of water and minerals.

Mycorrhizal associations

Symbiotic relationships between fungi and plant roots that enhance mineral absorption.

Stem functions

Stems elongate and orient shoots for maximizing photosynthesis and may perform alternate functions.

Leaf anatomy

Leaves consist of a blade and petiole and are primarily involved in photosynthesis, gas exchange, and defense.

Ground tissue

Plant tissue that is not specifically dermal or vascular and includes specialized cells for storage, photosynthesis, and support.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for conducting water and dissolved minerals from roots to shoots.

Phloem

Vascular tissue that transports sugars produced in leaves to other parts of the plant.

Meristem

Regions of undifferentiated plant cells that facilitate growth and are responsible for both primary and secondary growth.

Apical meristems

Meristematic tissues located at the tips of roots and shoots that lead to primary growth.

Secondary growth

Growth that increases the thickness of stems and roots, facilitated by lateral meristems.

Annuals, Biennials, Perennials

Categories of plants based on their life cycles; annuals complete it in a year, biennials in two years, and perennials over many years.

Cell differentiation

The process by which less specialized cells develop into more specialized cells and structures.

Dendrochronology

The study of tree rings to analyze growth patterns and past climate changes.

Vascular cambium

A type of lateral meristem responsible for producing secondary vascular tissue.

Cork cambium

A lateral meristem that produces cork cells, forming the outer protective layer of woody plants.

Developmental plasticity

The ability of a plant's development to be influenced by environmental factors.

Gene expression

The process through which specific genes are activated or repressed to determine cell fate and differentiation.