Sieve-tube cells

Definition

Sieve-tube cells are elongated, living cells that facilitate the transport of nutrients, particularly sugars, throughout a plant. They are a crucial component of the phloem tissue in vascular plants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sieve-tube cells lack nuclei at maturity but remain alive to function effectively.
2. They are interconnected with companion cells that help maintain their function and viability.
3. Sieve plates, which have pores, connect sieve-tube elements end-to-end, allowing for efficient nutrient flow.
4. These cells primarily transport organic materials like sucrose from photosynthetic areas to other parts of the plant.
5. Damage to sieve-tube cells can disrupt nutrient distribution and severely affect plant health.

Review Questions

Related terms

Phloem:

Plant tissue responsible for transporting organic nutrients, especially sucrose, throughout the plant.

Companion Cells: Specialized parenchyma cells closely associated with sieve-tube elements that help regulate their function.

Sieve Plates: Structures with pores found at the ends of sieve-tube elements that facilitate fluid movement between adjacent cells.