9.2.1

Structure

Test yourself

Structure

The phloem are plant vessels that are responsible for transporting sugars. The structure of the phloem is specialised for this role.

Illustrative background for Sieve tube elementsIllustrative background for Sieve tube elements ?? "content

Sieve tube elements

  • Sieve tube elements are the cells that make up the phloem vessel.
  • The vessel consists of many sieve tube elements that run up the stem on top of one another.
  • Sieve tube elements are living cells that contain a cytoplasm but no nucleus.
  • The walls of sieve tube elements are made of cellulose.
Illustrative background for Companion cellsIllustrative background for Companion cells ?? "content

Companion cells

  • Companion cells are connected to sieve tube elements via plasmodesmata.
    • Plasmodesmata allows the cytoplasm to be shared between companion cells and sieve tube elements.
  • Companion cells have a nucleus.
Illustrative background for Sieve platesIllustrative background for Sieve plates ?? "content

Sieve plates

  • At either end of the sieve tube elements are sieve plates.
  • Sieve plates have large pores that allow sap to move through the sieve tube elements.
  • Sieve plates allow sugars to be transported through the phloem.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

2Molecular Biology

3Genetics

4Ecology

5Evolution & Biodiversity

6Human Physiology

7AHL: Nucleic Acids

8AHL: Metabolism, Cell Respiration & Photosynthesis

9AHL: Plant Biology

9.1Transport in the Xylem of Plants

9.2Transport in the Phloem of Plants

9.3Growth in Plants

10AHL: Genetics & Evolution

11AHL: Animal Physiology

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium