Gewebesystem

Gewebesystem is a term used in plant biology to describe the three fundamental tissue systems that make up the plant body: the dermal, ground, and vascular tissue systems. These systems develop from the primary meristems—protoderm, ground meristem, and procambium—and extend through growth to cover all organs. Together they provide protection, photosynthesis, storage, transport, and structural support.

The dermal tissue system forms the outer protective layer. In young shoots it is the epidermis, while in woody parts the periderm replaces it during secondary growth. Epidermal cells may bear a cuticle and, in leaves, guard cells form stomata for gas exchange. Root hairs increase surface area for water and mineral uptake.

The ground tissue system lies internal to the dermal layer and surrounds the vascular tissue. It consists of parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Parenchyma performs photosynthesis in leaves, stores nutrients, and participates in metabolism. Collenchyma provides flexible support, while sclerenchyma furnishes rigid support via lignified cells such as fibers and sclereids.

The vascular tissue system includes xylem and phloem, responsible for transport. Xylem conducts water and minerals from roots to shoots and contributes to mechanical support; phloem distributes sugars and other organic nutrients. In many plants, the vascular cambium produces secondary xylem and phloem, increasing girth. Monocot stems often show scattered vascular bundles, while dicots typically form a ring.

These three systems are integrated components of the plant body, enabling growth, resource distribution, protection, and overall form. The concept is central to understanding plant anatomy and functional morphology across species.