What type of plant tissue is phloem?

Phloem is a type of plant tissue specifically responsible for transporting nutrients, particularly the products of photosynthesis such as sugars, from the leaves to other parts of the plant where they are needed or stored. This process is crucial for the continued growth and energy needs of the plant.

The role of phloem is distinct from that of xylem, which is the tissue responsible for carrying water and minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant. Phloem and xylem work together within the plant's vascular system, but they serve different functions. Thus, identifying phloem as "not xylem" emphasizes its unique role in nutrient transport.

In contrast, stating that phloem carries water is incorrect as that is the function of xylem. Saying that phloem is responsible for photosynthesis also misses the core function of phloem; while it does transport nutrients created from photosynthesis, it does not perform the photosynthesis process itself. Therefore, recognizing phloem's function as a nutrient transporter clarifies its essential role within the plant's biology.