Where is apical meristem found?

1. Location: Apical meristem is situated at the tips or apices of both roots and shoots in plants.
2. Role in Growth:
– Shoots: Found at the shoot tip or terminal bud, the apical meristem is responsible for primary growth in length of stems and branches.
– Roots: Located at the root tip or root apex, it contributes to the elongation of roots, aiding in downward growth.

3. Function:
– Cell Division: The apical meristem contains actively dividing cells that generate new cells.
– Differentiation: These new cells differentiate into various specialized tissues, such as vascular tissue, epidermis, and ground tissue.
– Primary Growth: It facilitates the growth of the plant in length, allowing for vertical and horizontal expansion.

4. Importance:
– Continual Growth: It ensures the plant’s continual growth and development throughout its life cycle.
– Tissue Renewal: Helps in replacing old or damaged tissues with new cells, aiding in repair and growth.

5. Regulation: The apical meristem’s activity is regulated by both internal and external factors, such as hormones and environmental cues, ensuring proper growth and adaptation to changing conditions in the plant’s surroundings.

The apical meristem serves as a critical region for plant growth, allowing for the extension of roots and shoots, and the continuous development of new cells essential for the plant’s life and structure.