Biology STAAR Practice Test 2026 - Free State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness Practice Questions and Study Guide

Vascular plants are characterized by the presence of specialized tissues known as xylem and phloem, which are essential for the transport of water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant. Xylem is responsible for transporting water and minerals absorbed from the soil to the rest of the plant, while phloem carries the products of photosynthesis, such as sugars, from the leaves to other parts of the plant for growth and energy storage.

This vascular system allows plants to efficiently distribute resources, enabling them to grow to larger sizes and thrive in a variety of environments. The complexity of vascular tissue also facilitates the differentiation of plant structures, supporting various forms of growth and adaptation.

In contrast, other statements about vascular plants are inaccurate. For instance, they do not lack vascular tissue; instead, that is a defining feature that distinguishes them from non-vascular plants like mosses. Additionally, while vascular plants can survive for a limited time without water, they do ultimately require it for their physiological processes. Lastly, sunlight is essential for photosynthesis in vascular plants, as they rely on this process to produce the energy needed for survival and growth. Thus, the correct statement emphasizes the importance of specialized tissues in the functioning of vascular plants.