Which vascular tissue is composed of living cells?

Which vascular tissue is composed of living cells?

• A. Xylem.
• B. Phloem.
• C. Both.
• D. Neither.

Answer: (B)

The ability to transport nutrients relies on living cells. Phloem is made up of living cells, with sieve tube elements that actively transport sugars and other organic nutrients, supported by companion cells that keep the system functioning. In contrast, xylem is built from mostly dead cells at maturity—tracheids and vessel elements—that form hollow conduits for moving water and minerals. Because the defining feature here is whether the transport tissue is composed of living cells, phloem is the correct choice.

The ability to transport nutrients relies on living cells. Phloem is made up of living cells, with sieve tube elements that actively transport sugars and other organic nutrients, supported by companion cells that keep the system functioning. In contrast, xylem is built from mostly dead cells at maturity—tracheids and vessel elements—that form hollow conduits for moving water and minerals. Because the defining feature here is whether the transport tissue is composed of living cells, phloem is the correct choice.