Translocation
Biology: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 3.3.9
Translocation
Translocation is the process by which food produced in photosynthesis is transported from the leaves (sources) to the growing regions of plants and storage organs (sinks). Features of translocation are:
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Phloem tubes
- Translocation happens through phloem tubes.
- Phloem tubes are made up of columns of elongated cells that have holes in the end walls.
- These holes allow cell sap (contains sucrose and amino acids) to pass between the cells.
Bidirectional
- Unlike water transport (transpiration), translocation is bidirectional (movement is both up and down the plant).
- Substances move from source (where they are made by photosynthesis) to sink (wherever they are needed at that time, such as the flowers or fruit).
Test yourself on Translocation
What is cell sap, the liquid that moves through phloem tubes?
How do transpiration and translocation differ?