10 Difference between Simple Tissue and Complex Tissue(With Table)

A tissue is a group of cells that have similar structures and work together to perform specific functions in living organisms. 

These tissues are grouped according to their composition. Tissues are classified as either simple or complex depending on the number of cells. 

So, what is the main difference between simple and complex tissue? The former is made up of cells of the same kind while the latter is made up of cells of different types. 

Simple tissues are also known as homogeneous and complex tissues as heterogeneous. The tissue composition and function helps to explain more differences. 

This article provides further explanation on how simple tissues are different from complex tissues in living things. Take the time to read through it and learn to state their differences. 

Comparison Table (Simple Tissue vs Complex Tissue)

Basic Terms	Simple Tissue	Complex Tissue
Description	It comprises cells that are functionally and structurally similar.	It comprises different cells that perform different functions.
Nature of Tissue	Homogeneous	Heterogeneous
Distribution	All over	Restricted to specific parts.
Performance	Does many functions	Only meant for conduction.
Function	Storage of food.	Offering protection.
Location	Every part of the plant.	Vascular region of the plant.
Cell Differentiation	Perform the same functions.	Perform different functions.
Composition	Single cells	Multiple cells
Significance	Transport of water and food in plants.	Offer support to plants.
Examples	Collenchyma, parenchyma, sclerenchyma	Phloem and xylem tissues.

What Is Simple Tissue?

Simple tissue comprises the same type of cells that make up both the external and internal organs of the body.

These tissues are normally packed together and they tend to have a similar structure. They are classified into three forms that are parenchyma, sclerenchyma, and collenchyma.

Parenchyma tissues are known for offering protection and mechanical support while collenchyma offers flexibility and mechanical support. Lastly, sclerenchyma offers rigidity and mechanical support. 

What Is Complex Tissue?

Complex tissue comprises different types of cells that perform different functions. Besides that, the tissue is known for binding organs together and offering support.

Complex tissues are all over the body wherein animals are known as connective tissues while in plants as xylem and phloem tissues respectively.

Xylem tissue in plants is responsible for water and mineral transportation from the roots while phloem tissue for translocation of food from the leaves to the various parts of the plant.

Differences Between Simple Tissue and Complex Tissue

1. Simple tissue compromises cells that are related and similar while complex tissue comprises different cells that perform different functions.
2. Simple tissue consists of parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma while complex tissue comprises xylem and phloem tissues.
3. Simple tissues are widely distributed in various parts of the plant while complex tissues are restricted in the vascular region only.
4. Simple tissues perform the task of storage of food while complex tissue performs support, transportation of food, and conduction of water in the plants.
5. Simple tissues have a lot of capabilities in the plants while complex tissues are only restricted to certain tasks.
6. Complex tissue help to prevent water loss and also offer room for gaseous exchange, unlike simple tissues.
7. Simple tissues carry out a wide range of duties when compared to complex tissues that work according to the area of specialization.
8. Simple tissue comprises of single-cell while complex tissue comprises multiple cells. 

Similarities of Simple Tissue and Complex Tissue

1. Both provide support to the plant
2. Both are found in plants 
3. Both play role conduction of water and translocation of food

You May Also Like:

• Differences between Xylem and Phloem
• Difference between Protoxylem and Metaxylem
• Difference between Cork Cambium and Vascular Cambium

Conclusion

The article provides detailed insight into the differences between simple permanent tissues and complex permanent tissues in the plant.

I hope the information helped you differentiate between these two biological terms that are popularly found in plants.

Kindly use the comment section below to share your experience and thoughts about the two-term. Good luck.

More Sources and References

1. Tissues. Wikipedia
2. Simple Tissue. Britannica
3. Simple Tissues and Complex Tissues. Biocyclopedia