Phloem - GCSE Biology Definition

Phloem is a type of transport tissue found in plants that carries dissolved sugars, mainly produced during photosynthesis, from the leaves to other parts of the plant. This process, called translocation, allows the plant to grow and function properly by distributing energy where it is needed, such as to the roots, fruits, and flowers. Phloem tissue is made up of living cells arranged in tubes. Unlike xylem, which only transports water and minerals upwards, phloem can transport substances in both directions. Understanding phloem is important for GCSE Biology as it explains how plants distribute food they produce.