Question

Define meristematic tissue. Why do meristematic cells lack vacuoles?

Answer 1

Meristematic tissues are cells or group of cells that have the ability to divide. These tissues in a plant consist of small, densely packed cells that can keep dividing to form new cells.

The purpose of vacuole is to store food and waste product. Since meristems are young cells and are actively dividing, they do not participate actively in food preparation. Also, they do not produce large amount of waste. Hence, they lack vacuoles.