What is meristem tissue responsible for in plants?

Meristem tissue is a crucial component in plant growth and development, primarily characterized by its role in active cell division. This tissue is found in specific areas of the plant, such as the tips of roots and shoots, where it is responsible for the production of new cells. As the cells divide, they can either remain undifferentiated or begin the process of differentiating into various types of specialized cells, which is essential for the formation of different plant tissues.

The continuous division in meristematic tissue allows plants to grow in height and develop new leaves and flowers. This contrasts with photosynthesis, which occurs in the leaves, and reproductive processes, which involve the maturation of reproductive tissues rather than growth. While cell differentiation does happen as a result of meristem activity, the defining characteristic of meristem tissue is its ability to actively divide, leading to growth. Therefore, active cell division is fundamentally what meristem tissue is responsible for.