A collection of cells performing a specific function is called tissue. Plant tissues can be grouped into plant tissue systems, each performing specialized functions. A plant tissue system is defined as a functional unit connecting all the organs of a plant. The plant tissue system is also grouped into various tissues based on their functions. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Plant tissues can be broadly classified based on the ability of cells to divide into merismatic tissues and permanent tissues. Merismatic tissues are made up of a group of cells capable of dividing. These tissues are small, cuboidal, densely populated cells that continue to divide to form new cells. These tissues are able to stretch, enlarge, and differentiate into other types of tissues as they mature. Meristematic tissues give rise to permanent tissues. Merismatic tissues can be of three types depending on the region where they are present: apical meristems, lateral meristems and intercalary meristems. Permanent tissues are derived from merismatic tissues and have lost their ability to divide. They have reached their mature form. They are further classified into two types: simple and complex permanent tissues. Permanent tissues make up the majority of the plant. Parenchyma: These tissues are found in the soft parts of a plant such as roots, stems, leaves and flowers. The cells of this tissue are loosely packed and contain large intercellular spaces between them. Each cell has a vacuole in the center. The functions of parenchyma tissues are storage, photosynthesis, and helping the plant float on water. Collenchyma – Similar to parenchyma cells with thicker cell walls. They are intended to provide mechanical support to the plant structure in parts such as the leaf petiole. Sclerenchyma – The cells in this tissue have died. They are rigid, contain thick and lignified secondary walls. Their main function is to provide strength and support to the plant parts. Unlike simple permanent cells which look similar and are made of only one cell type, complex permanent tissues are made of multiple cell types. These different types of cells coordinate to perform a function. Xylem and phloem are complex permanent tissues and are found in the vascular bundles of plants. Xylem – It consists of tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma and xylem fibers. Tracheids and vessels are hollow, tube-shaped structures that help conduct water and minerals. The xylem only leads in one direction, that is, vertically. The xylem parenchyma is responsible for storing prepared foods and participates in water conduction. Xylem fibers have a supporting function. Phloem - It consists of four elements: sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem fibers and phloem parenchyma. Unlike xylem, phloem conducts in both directions. It is responsible for transporting food from the leaves to other parts of the plant. Phloem contains living tissue, except for fibers which are dead tissue. Plant tissues have different functions depending on their structure and location. They help provide mechanical resistance to organs. They help provide elasticity and flexibility to the organs. They help fabrics fold easily in various parts of a.