2) Plant Cells and Tissues

What are undifferentiated cells commonly referred to as?

Meristems (growth)

What are differentiated cells commonly referred to as?

Tissues (simple + complex)

What type of tissue is sclerenchyma?

Simple tissue that provides heavy-duty support and protection.

What are sclereids?

Short, often branched cells found in hard seed coats, nut shells, and pear flesh.

What is an example of fiber in sclerenchyma?

Flax.

What characterizes simple tissues?

Single main cell type; focus on structure/function.

What defines complex tissues?

More than one cell type per tissue, often with multiple functions.

What are the four complex tissues mentioned in the lecture?

Epidermis, Periderm, Xylem, Phloem.

What is the primary function of epidermis cells?

Protection.

What is the cuticle and its purpose?

A waxy layer made of cutin that protects against water loss and serves as a defense.

How does the thickness of the cuticle relate to water permeability?

Thickness is approximately equal to water permeability.

What is a stoma?

A structure consisting of two guard cells that allows for water and gas exchange.

How do stomata respond to water pressure?

Dry conditions lead to low water pressure; wet conditions lead to high water pressure.

What role do trichomes play in plants?

They provide protection and help with water and nutrient uptake.

In non-woody plants, how thick is the epidermis?

One cell layer thick and alive.

What are two functions of the cuticle?

Reduce water loss and provide defense against bacteria/pests.

What are root hairs and why are they important?

Short-lived structures vital for water uptake.

What are stinging hairs and their purpose?

Defense mechanism found on plants like stinging nettles.

What specialized function do Venus flytrap sensing hairs serve?

They help the plant detect prey.

How do conical epidermis structures in rose flowers function?

They attract insects.

What adaptation does lotus epidermis demonstrate?

It has a water-repellent and self-cleaning effect.

How long ago is the cuticle estimated to have evolved?

Approximately 420 million years ago.

Which tissue type is more complex: simple or complex?

Complex tissue.

What are the components included in the epidermis?

Epidermis cells, cuticle, stoma, glands, hairs/trichomes.

What is the function of guard cells?

Regulate the opening and closing of stomata for gas and water exchange.

What is sclerenchyma known for in plants?

Providing heavy-duty support and protection.

What are fibers found in sclerenchyma used for?

Providing structural support.

What role do glands play in the epidermis?

Provide protection.

What type of plant tissue is primarily responsible for transport?

Xylem and phloem.

Which tissue type includes multiple functions and cell types?

Complex tissues.