Question

Heartwood differs from sapwood in:

Options

• presence of rays and fibres

• absence of vessels and parenchyma

• having dead and non-conducting elements

• being susceptible to pests and pathogens

Answer 1

having dead and non-conducting elements

Explanation:

Heartwood is distinguished from sapwood by the presence of dead and non-conducting components. Heartwood is the inner area of an old tree that contains dead elements with highly lignified walls. The stem is supported mechanically by heartwood, which does not conduct water. Sapwood, on the other hand, refers to the lighter-coloured periphery zone. It helps to transport water and minerals from the root to the leaf.