Final answer:
Xylem parenchyma cells are formed directly from meristem cells in the plant. They are part of the xylem tissue along with tracheids and vessel elements. Their primary functions involve storage, support and transport of nutrients within the plant.
Step-by-step explanation:
Xylem parenchyma cells are formed through direct production from the meristem cells. Xylem tissue consists of three types of cells: xylem parenchyma, tracheids, and vessel elements. Vessel elements and tracheids conduct water and are dead at maturity, while xylem parenchyma cells are alive at maturity. These xylem parenchyma cells serve as storage and support within the plant vascular tissue.
The xylem and phloem tissues lie adjacent to each other to form a structure called a vascular bundle in stems, or the vascular stele in roots. The structure and function of the xylem tissue, which includes xylem parenchyma, tracheids, and vessel elements, enable water and nutrients to be transported throughout the plant, and also provide structural support to the plant.
The formation of xylem parenchyma cells from meristem cells takes place during plant development, and they aid in the storage and transport of nutrients and water within the plant. This process highlights the crucial role of xylem parenchyma cells in the growth and wellbeing of the plant.
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