Here's a little more about phloem:
* Function: Phloem is responsible for transporting sugars (produced during photosynthesis) and other organic nutrients throughout the plant.
* Structure: Phloem is made up of living cells called sieve tube elements and companion cells.
* Sieve tube elements: These are long, thin cells that are connected end-to-end to form tubes. They have holes in their cell walls (sieve plates) that allow the flow of nutrients.
* Companion cells: These cells are closely associated with sieve tube elements and provide them with energy and support.
Fun Fact: The movement of nutrients through phloem is called translocation, and it can occur in both directions (up or down the plant).
