Transpiration and guttation are both processes that remove excess water from plants, but they differ in the mechanism and location of water removal.
According to the reference provided, the key distinction lies in where and how the water is released:
- Transpiration: This is the removal of water vapor through the stomata, which are small pores primarily found on the leaves.
- Guttation: This is the removal of liquid water through hydathodes, which are specialized structures typically located on leaf margins or tips.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Transpiration | Guttation |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Removal of water vapor | Removal of liquid water |
| Location | Stomata (mainly on leaves) | Hydathodes (leaf margins/tips) |
In essence, transpiration is like a plant "sweating" water vapor through its pores, while guttation is like a plant "weeping" liquid water from specialized openings.
