1. State the location and function of different types of meristems.
Meristem refers to the simple tissue composed of a group of similar and immature cells which can divide and form new cells. Based on position, there can be three types of meristem including apical meristem, intercalary meristem and lateral meristem. The location and function of these meristems are as follows:
Type of meristem | Location of meristem | Function of meristem |
Apical meristem |
It occurs at the tips of roots and shoots | It increases the length of plants |
Intercalary meristem |
It occurs between mature tissues, especially in grasses |
Intercalary meristem aids in the regeneration of grasses after they have been grazed by herbivores |
Lateral meristem |
It occurs on the sides of mature tissues of roots and shoots | It causes an increase in the girth of plants |