Tissue systems in plants are organized groups of tissues that work together to perform specific functions. Plants, particularly angiosperms (flowering plants), are categorized into two major groups: dicots (dicotyledons) and monocots (monocotyledons). These two groups exhibit differences in various aspects, including their tissue systems. Here’s a comparison of tissue systems in dicots and monocots:

Tissue Systems in Plants

1. Dermal Tissue System: This is the protective outer covering of plants.

2. Vascular Tissue System: Consists of xylem and phloem, responsible for transport of water, nutrients, and food.

3. Ground Tissue System: Makes up the bulk of the plant body, involved in photosynthesis, storage, and support.

Dicot vs. Monocot

Dermal Tissue

• Dicots: Often have trichomes (hair-like structures) and stomata are usually more regulated.
• Monocots: Generally have a more uniform distribution of stomata and lack trichomes.

Vascular Tissue

• Dicots:
  • Vascular bundles are arranged in a ring in the stem.
  • Secondary growth common, leading to an increase in girth.
  • Xylem often forms an ‘X’ shape in cross-section.
• Monocots:
  • Vascular bundles are scattered throughout the stem.
  • Lack secondary growth.
  • Xylem and phloem in each bundle are often close together.

Ground Tissue

• Dicots: Divided into cortex and pith; the cortex is between the vascular bundles and epidermis, and the pith is in the center of the stem.
• Monocots: The distinction between cortex and pith is often not clear, and ground tissue mostly fills the space between dermal and vascular tissues.

Root Structure

• Dicots: Typically have a taproot system.
• Monocots: Usually have a fibrous root system.

Leaf Venation

• Dicots: Generally have net-like or reticulate venation.
• Monocots: Typically exhibit parallel venation.

Seed

• Dicots: Seeds typically have two cotyledons.
• Monocots: Seeds usually have one cotyledon.

These differences in tissue systems and overall structure contribute to the diverse adaptations and ecological strategies seen in monocots and dicots.