What do you understand by the term tissue?

A tissue is a group of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function. Both plants and animals are made up of different tissues that carry out specialized roles.

Plant Tissues – Meristematic Tissue

Meristematic tissue is the active tissue in plants responsible for growth. It consists of continuously dividing cells that increase the length and thickness of the plant. Primary growth takes place only in certain regions, such as the tips of stems and roots.

Types of Meristematic Tissue:

1. Apical Meristem – Found at the tips of stems and roots. Responsible for increasing length (primary growth).
2. Lateral Meristem – Found beneath the bark (cork cambium) and in vascular bundles of dicots (vascular cambium). Causes increase in thickness or diameter (secondary growth).
3. Intercalary Meristem – Located at the base of nodes, internodes, and leaf bases. Contributes to growth in length.

Animal Tissues – Main Types in Humans

1. Connective Tissue – Provides support, shape, and helps maintain organ positions.
2. Epithelial Tissue – Functions in protection, sensory reception, filtration, and other metabolic activities.
3. Muscle Tissue – Produces force, enables movement, and generates motion.
4. Nervous Tissue – Forms the brain and spinal cord, responsible for transmitting signals.