Compare the mechanisms used in xylem and phloem transport. Solution The xylem is the plant tissue which maintains and governs movement of water and ions while the phloem is the tissue which regulates the movement of food across the plants. The fundamental differences between the two are tabulated as below: Thus, these differences in the structural and functional aspects of xylem and phloem bring about transport of water and food in the plants.DifferenceXylemPhloemStructureXylem are vessel like tubular structures which maintain transport of water and ions across the plants. This movement occurs from the direction of roots to upwards since water is absorbed from the roots. The accessory tissues which help in water movement are tracheids and vessles.The phloem are semi- perforated tubule like structure which maintain movement of food/glucose. The accessory organs which help in this translocation are sieve tubes and companion cells.DirectionThe movement of water is unidirectional in natureThe movement of food is bidirectional in natureLocationThe xylem tissue and its accessory tissue are located in the innermost side of the vascular bundle. This preserves water content and prevents evaporation or transpiration.The phloem and its accessory tissues are located on the outer side of the vascular bundle which ensure transport of food to the outermost and growing parts of the plant..