Cambium

Definition

Cambium is a layer of actively dividing cells in plants that is responsible for secondary growth, allowing plants to increase in diameter. This meristematic tissue is crucial for the formation of new xylem and phloem, contributing to the overall health and support of the plant structure as it ages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cambium is typically found between the xylem and phloem layers in vascular plants, allowing for the production of new cells that differentiate into these tissues.
2. There are two main types of cambium: vascular cambium, which produces xylem and phloem, and cork cambium, which produces protective bark.
3. Secondary growth due to cambium activity is especially pronounced in woody plants, leading to the formation of rings that can be observed in tree trunks.
4. Cambium plays a vital role in plant repair; when trees are damaged, cambium cells can proliferate to heal wounds and regenerate lost tissues.
5. The activity of cambium is influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and water availability, impacting overall plant growth and survival.

Review Questions

• How does cambium contribute to the secondary growth of plants, and why is this important for woody species?
  • Cambium contributes to secondary growth by continuously producing new layers of xylem and phloem, which allows woody plants to increase in diameter over time. This growth is important for providing structural support as the plant matures and also facilitates efficient transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the larger plant body. As a result, trees can withstand environmental stresses better and maintain their vitality.
• Discuss the differences between vascular cambium and cork cambium, including their respective roles in plant structure.
  • Vascular cambium and cork cambium serve different functions in plant structure. Vascular cambium generates new xylem and phloem cells, crucial for internal nutrient transport and support. In contrast, cork cambium produces cork cells that form a protective outer layer or bark. This bark helps protect against environmental damage while minimizing water loss. Both types of cambium are essential for overall plant health and development.
• Evaluate the impact of environmental factors on cambial activity and its subsequent effects on plant growth and adaptation.
  • Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil moisture significantly influence cambial activity. For example, warmer temperatures often stimulate increased cell division within cambium during growing seasons, leading to enhanced secondary growth. Conversely, drought conditions can slow down or even halt this activity, affecting the plant's ability to expand and transport nutrients. Thus, understanding how cambium responds to environmental changes is critical for comprehending plant adaptability and resilience in varying climates.

Related terms

Xylem:

The vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.

Phloem:

The vascular tissue that transports sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.

Meristem: A region in plants consisting of undifferentiated cells that can divide and develop into various types of tissues.