Endodermis
The plant endodermis plays an important role in selecting what gets into the plant from the soil. It is a layer of cells that prevents nutrients from leaving the plant structure and returning to the soil. It is commonly found in the root of the plant. The endodermal layer in a plant, almost always in the root, regulates the water and other substances that get into the plant. The endodermis thus allows trees and other large plants to grow much taller than otherwise would be possible.
- It is composed of single-layered and barrel-shaped parenchymatous cells.
- Since these cells bear plenty of starch grains it is also called a starch sheath. The endodermis is a single layer of cells that borders the cortex of a root
- These layers work together to absorb water and nutrients, which are essential to keep the plant alive.
Functions
- It acts as a stellar sheath and it also stores food. It plays an important role in transporting water from the ground via the roots up through the rest of the plant.
- The endodermis plays a role in helping the plant absorb nutrients. Hormone and ion movement in and out of the roots vascular system.
- Its role in ion selectivity is minor compared to the cells of the cortex and epidermis.
- The additional water-transport capability allows plants with endodermis tissue to grow taller because they are able to bring water and other nutrients to greater heights.
The endodermis also functions in structural support for the stele, particularly in drying soil, and minimizes shrinkage or swelling of the cells of the stele. It is the central, innermost layer of any land plant root cells, consists of closely packed cells. The whole system in which the endodermis functions allows the roots to select what gets into the vascular core. So the Endodermis function is protection. Because it forms a cellular seal around a plant’s vascular tissue, the endodermis also helps prevent the entry of harmful organisms and chemicals into the plant.
