After closely examining a local "sweetheart tree that recently died, you notice that there are so many initials carved into the bark, which includes all the phloem, that there is no continuous, uninterrupted conduit for the phloem all the way around a tree trunk. Why did this eventually cause the tree to die?
A) Cells of the apical meristem can no longer divide.
B) The transport of sugars between leaves and roots is interrupted.
C) The transport of sugars between leaves and twigs is interrupted.
D) Water and minerals can no longer be supplied to the leaves.
E) The tree is more susceptible to insect and fungal diseases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phloem is responsible for the transport of sugars and nutrients from the leaves, where they are produced through photosynthesis, to other parts of the plant including the roots. Carving into the phloem around the entire circumference of the tree disrupts this essential transport system, leading to the tree's death.

After Closely Examining a Local "Sweetheart Tree That Recently Died