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Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: axscientist on 01/12/2020 23:50:30

Title: Question That My Teacher Couldn't Answer - Plants
Post by: axscientist on 01/12/2020 23:50:30

What are pith rays and vascular rays? What are their differences?

Thanks,
AX

Title: Re: Question That My Teacher Couldn't Answer - Plants
Post by: Colin2B on 02/12/2020 09:00:14

Quote from: axscientist on 01/12/2020 23:50:30

What are pith rays and vascular rays? What are their differences?

Thanks,
AX

They are really the same, properly called Medullary rays.
They are lines of cells found in some species of tree and run radially - centre to edge. They are used to transport water & minerals across the tree. 
If the wood is quarter sawn - perpendicular to the growth rings - they show as patterns (sometimes called figure) which often are very attractive as they reflect light.
Look at some oak panelling, you will see light streaks in the wood.