Vascular plants, also known as tracheophytes, are a large group of plants that possess specialized tissues

for transporting water, minerals, and nutrients throughout their structures. They are characterized by
the presence of vascular tissue, which consists of xylem and phloem.

Xylem is responsible for conducting water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
It consists of long, tubular cells that are dead at maturity and form a continuous network of vessels and
tracheids. These structures provide structural support to the plant and allow for the upward movement
of water against gravity through a process known as transpiration.

Phloem, on the other hand, is responsible for transporting sugars, organic compounds, and other
nutrients from the leaves and other photosynthetic organs to other parts of the plant. It consists of
living cells called sieve elements, which are connected end-to-end to form sieve tubes. These cells are
supported by companion cells that help in maintaining the metabolic processes of the sieve elements.

Vascular plants encompass a wide range of species, including ferns, conifers, and flowering plants. They
have well-developed roots, stems, and leaves, which provide structural support, nutrient uptake, and
photosynthesis, respectively. The presence of vascular tissue allows these plants to grow larger and
more complex compared to non-vascular plants, such as mosses and liverworts, which lack specialized
tissues for efficient water and nutrient transport.

Vascular plants have played a crucial role in the colonization of terrestrial environments and dominate
most land ecosystems today. They are essential for oxygen production, carbon sequestration, soil
stabilization, and provide habitats and resources for numerous organisms.