Which tissue in vascular plants is specialized for nutrient absorption?

Phloem is the specialized tissue in vascular plants that is responsible for the transport of nutrients, particularly organic compounds like sugars produced during photosynthesis. This tissue plays a crucial role in distributing these nutrients throughout the plant, ensuring that all parts receive the necessary energy for growth and development. The transport process occurs through living cells in the phloem, allowing the plant to efficiently move the essential substances from areas of production (like the leaves) to areas where they are needed (such as the roots and developing fruits).

In contrast, xylem is primarily responsible for the transport of water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. Vascular cambium does not participate in nutrient absorption or transport; rather, it is involved in producing new xylem and phloem cells, contributing to the plant's growth. The cortex, located between the epidermis and vascular tissue, functions primarily in storage and transport within the roots and stems but is not specialized for active nutrient transport like phloem.