Phellem definitions
| Word backwards | mellehp |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "phellem" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | phel-lem |
| Plural | The plural of the word phellem is phella. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (1) | e |
| Consonants (4) | p,h,l,m |
Phellem, also known as cork tissue, is a protective outer layer of a plant stem. It is a type of plant tissue that serves as a barrier against physical damage, desiccation, and pathogens.
Structure of Phellem
Phellem consists of dead cells that are heavily suberized, meaning they have a high content of suberin, a waxy substance. This suberized layer makes the phellem impermeable to water and gases, which helps prevent water loss as well as protect the plant from external threats.
Functions of Phellem
The primary function of phellem is to provide protection to the underlying tissues of the plant. It acts as a barrier against mechanical damage, such as abrasion or herbivory, and helps reduce water loss through transpiration. Additionally, phellem helps prevent the entry of pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi, into the plant.
Formation and Renewal of Phellem
Phellem is continuously produced by a specialized layer of cells known as the cork cambium, or phellogen. The cork cambium is a lateral meristem that produces new phellem cells on the outer surface of the stem. As new phellem cells are formed, older cells are pushed outward and undergo a process known as suberization, becoming part of the protective layer.
Suberin and phellogen are crucial components in the formation and function of phellem. Suberin provides the waterproofing properties, while the phellogen is responsible for the production of new phellem cells.
Overall, phellem plays a vital role in the survival and growth of plants, providing essential protection against environmental stresses and pathogens. Its unique structure and functions make it a critical component of plant anatomy and physiology.
Phellem Examples
- The phellem layer of cork oak bark helps protect the tree from external damage.
- The presence of phellem cells in the plant's epidermis provides a barrier against pathogens.
- Some plants produce phellem tissue as a response to environmental stressors.
- Cork is a natural material derived from the phellem layer of cork oak trees.
- The phellem cells of certain plants contain suberin, making them impermeable to water.
- The removal of phellem tissue from a plant can disrupt its ability to regulate water loss.
- Phellem cells in the epidermis of a plant can undergo lignification to increase their strength.
- Damage to the phellem layer can make a plant more susceptible to infection by pathogens.
- The characteristics of phellem tissue vary depending on the plant species.
- The phellem layer serves a protective function for the underlying tissues of a plant.