Photomicrograph showing xylem vessels X300

Information about the xylem vessels:

1. Xylem is a tissue consists of xylem vessels, xylem fibres and xylem parnechyma.

2. The photo shows the presence of lignin rings which prevent collapse of the xylem vessels.

3.The xylem vessels are dead hollow cells. They are used for transport of water and mineral salts.

4. The wall of the xylem vessel is thick. It is also further thickened by lignin.

5. The cell content is lost during the development of the xylem vessel. This allows the formation of a hollow tube.

6. The cross wall between xylem vessels disappear too. This allows a continuous column of water to pass along.

7. Xylem vessels have two functions in the plants: support and transport.