Tracheid and Vessel are the components of xylem, the water, and minerals conducting tissue in plants. Vessels and tracheids are jointly known as the tracheary elements of the xylem.
Tracheid
- These are xylem elements found in all types of vascular plants.
- These are single cells with tapering ends, hence are not syncytium.
- The cells are long and tapering at both ends.
- The cells are dead and have bordered pits.
- The partition walls of the cells do not break down
- Its functions are storage and conduction of water and giving mechanical support
- It is usually found in fern plants, gymnospermic plants, and angiospermic plants
Xylem Vessel
- These are also xylem elements (trachea) but restricted to angiosperms only
- A vessel is formed by several cells arranged end to end and dissolved cross walls, hence is a syncytium.
- The cells are long, tubular and swollen at both ends
- Simple pits are present in the walls of dead cells.
- The partition walls form a tube after being broken down
- Its main function is to conduct water. Besides, it gives mechanical support.
- It is only found in gymnospermic plants.
Similarities between Tracheid and Vessel
- Both are present in primary and secondary xylem.
- Both can transport water.
- Both vessels and tracheids are the components of xylem.
- Both are dead cells at maturity.
- Both possess a secondary lignified cell wall.
