protoxylem
/ˌproʊtəˈzaɪləm/
noun
- The first-formed part of the xylem in a plant, consisting of narrow cells that help transport water and provide support during early growth.
- As the plant matures, the protoxylem is often crushed by the growth of new tissue.
- The protoxylem in the stem is responsible for water transport in young seedlings.
- Under the microscope, the protoxylem appears as small, thin-walled cells.