Final answer:
Animal tissues are specialized for functions like movement, sensation, and internal regulation to maintain homeostasis, and are widely varied to adapt to heterotrophic lifestyles. Plant tissues focus on photosynthesis, structural support, and nutrient transport, and possess cell walls, chloroplasts, and a large central vacuole unlike animal cells. Both have different development processes and defensive strategies against infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distribution of animal tissue in an organism differs from the distribution of tissues in a plant primarily due to the functions and environmental interactions of animal and plant cells. Animal tissues are specialized to perform specific functions required for maintaining homeostasis, interacting with the environment, and allowing the mobility necessary for the heterotrophic lifestyle that animals lead. For example, muscle tissue provides the ability to move, neural tissue carries signals for coordination, and epithelial tissues create barriers or interfaces with the environment.
In contrast, plant tissues support functions like photosynthesis, structural support, and nutrient transport throughout the organism. Plant cells contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a rigid cell wall for structure, and a large central vacuole for storage and maintaining cell turgor pressure. The distribution of plant tissues includes the dermal, vascular, and ground tissues, each with a specific role in the plant's survival and interaction with its environment.
Moreover, the developmental processes of these tissues differ in animals and plants. Animals undergo a series of developmental stages that lead to determined and fixed body plans, whereas plants can grow indeterminately through meristematic tissues.
In response to infection, animal tissue typically reacts with inflammation, while plant tissues may initiate apoptosis to contain damage.