Question

What is the role of companion cells?

Answer 1

1. Phloem is the living tissue in vascular plants that transports the soluble organic compounds made during photosynthesis.

2. There are 4 parts of phloem- Sieve tubes, companion cells, phloem parenchyma, and phloem fibers.

3. Companion cells are closely attached to sieve tubes. These cells are found in the phloem of flowering plants.

4. Companion cells transport sugar and amino acids in and out of the sieve elements.

5. At the source, the movement of sugars in the phloem is initiated, wherein the sugars are loaded into the sieve tube (active transport). The movement of sugar is promoted by loading, which establishes a water potential gradient that facilitates the movement of sugar.