What is the primary function of meristematic tissue in plants?

Meristematic tissue is fundamentally responsible for the growth and formation of new tissues in plants. This tissue is composed of undifferentiated cells that have the ability to divide and develop into various types of cells that make up the plant. Meristematic tissues are located in growth regions such as the tips of roots and stems (apical meristems), and in areas of lateral growth (lateral meristems or cambium). As these cells divide and differentiate, they give rise to all other tissues of the plant, including dermal, ground, and vascular tissues.

The other functions mentioned in the options do play important roles in plant physiology but are not the primary function of meristematic tissue. The transport of nutrients is largely managed by vascular tissues, particularly xylem and phloem. Support structure is primarily provided by sclerenchyma and collenchyma tissues, while water absorption is the function of specialized root structures and epidermal cells, particularly root hairs. Thus, the defining characteristic of meristematic tissue is its role in growth and the production of new plant tissues.