Guttation and bleeding are both processes involving the release of fluids from plants, but they differ significantly in their causes and mechanisms.
Key Differences Between Guttation and Bleeding
| Feature | Guttation | Bleeding |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Loss of liquid water from hydathodes on leaf margins. | Exudation of cell sap from an incision in a plant. |
| Cause | Root pressure exceeding transpiration rate, leading to water release. | Physical damage, such as cutting or wounding the plant. |
| Fluid | Relatively pure water with some minerals. | Cell sap containing sugars, amino acids, and other organic compounds. |
| Location | Hydathodes (specialized pores) on leaf margins. | Site of the incision or wound. |
| Mechanism | Root pressure forces water out through hydathodes. | Internal pressure and capillary action cause cell sap to flow from the wound. |
Guttation Explained
Guttation occurs when the rate of water absorption by the roots exceeds the rate of transpiration. This typically happens at night or during periods of high humidity when transpiration is low. The excess water is then forced out of the plant through specialized structures called hydathodes, which are located on the margins or tips of leaves. The fluid released during guttation is not dew; it's water exuded from the plant itself.
- Example: You might observe guttation on the tips of grass blades in the early morning.
Bleeding Explained
Bleeding, on the other hand, is the result of physical damage to the plant. When a plant is cut or wounded, the internal pressure within the plant's vascular system causes cell sap to flow out from the damaged area. This cell sap contains a variety of nutrients and organic compounds.
- Example: Tapping maple trees for syrup involves inducing bleeding by drilling holes into the trunk. The sap that flows out is then collected and processed.
In Conclusion
According to the provided reference, the loss of liquid drop from the hydathodes present on the margins of leaves is called guttation, while the exudation of cell sap from an incision made in a plant is called bleeding. Thus, guttation is a natural process of water release, while bleeding is a consequence of injury and the subsequent release of cell sap.
