What is the main function of meristem tissue in plants?

Meristem tissue plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. It is composed of undifferentiated cells that have the ability to divide and differentiate into various types of cells. This property of cell division is essential for both primary growth, which adds length to the plant through the apical and lateral meristems, and secondary growth, which increases the thickness of stems and roots via cambial meristems.

In contrast, while photosynthesis is vital for producing energy and supporting the growth of a plant, it occurs in mature leaves and other green tissues, not in meristematic tissue. Water storage is typically associated with specialized structures, such as vacuoles in mature cells, rather than the active growth tissues themselves. Nutrient absorption primarily takes place in the root system through the root hairs and not directly in meristem tissue, which focuses on generating new cells for growth.

Thus, the primary function of meristem tissue as the site of cell division and growth solidifies its importance in the overall development and health of plants.