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💬 Think about it
A tree stands still in one spot for years, while a dog runs around all day. Their bodies are built for very different lives. So it makes sense their tissues are different too. Let us see why.
Why do plant and animal tissues differ in support?
- Most plants are fixed in one place and need support.
- Plant cells have a cell wall that gives rigidity and strength.
- Most animals can move from place to place.
- Without a rigid wall, animal cells change shape easily, which helps movement.
How do plants and animals differ in nutrition and transport?
- Animals have tissues that digest food from outside sources.
- Plants have tissues that make food using sunlight by photosynthesis.
- Both have separate tissues to transport food and water.
- Their growth tissues also differ in structure and function.
Example:
In plants, xylem carries water and phloem carries food; in animals, blood carries both.
Important Points
- Plant cells have a rigid cell wall; animal cells do not.
- Plants make their own food; animals take food from outside.
- Plant and animal growth tissues differ in structure and function.
❓ Test Yourself
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What gives plant cells their rigidity?
View Answer
The cell wall. -
Why can animal cells change shape easily?
View Answer
They have no rigid cell wall, which helps them move. -
How do plants get their food?
View Answer
They make it themselves using sunlight, by photosynthesis. -
Which plant tissues carry water and food?
View Answer
Xylem carries water; phloem carries food.
Important Definitions
- Cell wall — a rigid outer layer of plant cells that gives support and strength.
- Photosynthesis — the process by which plants use sunlight to make their food.
