Pronunciation: [kˈambiə] (IPA) 
The word "cambia" is spelled with the letters C-A-M-B-I-A. In IPA phonetic transcription, this would be /ˈkæmbi.ə/. The first sound of the word is a "k" sound, as indicated by the /k/ symbol. The second and third sounds are the short "a" vowel sound, represented by the /æ/ symbol. The fourth sound is a "m" sound, followed by the short "i" sound represented by /i/. Lastly, the word ends with a neutral vowel sound represented by /ə/.
"Cambia" refers to a type of tissue in plants called the cambium, which is responsible for lateral growth and the development of secondary tissues in stems and roots. The term originates from the Latin word "cambium" meaning "exchange" or "change".
The cambium is a layer of actively dividing cells located between the xylem, which conducts water and minerals from roots to leaves, and the phloem, which transports sugars produced during photosynthesis from leaves to other parts of the plant. This meristematic tissue is also known as the vascular cambium as it gives rise to secondary xylem (wood) and secondary phloem (inner bark), which contribute to the thickening and expansion of woody stems and roots.
The cambium is comprised of two distinct types of cells: fusiform initials and ray initials. Fusiform initials are elongated cells responsible for producing secondary xylem toward the inside and secondary phloem toward the outside of the stem or root. Ray initials, on the other hand, produce cells that form rays, which are tissues that extend horizontally through the stem or root and serve various functions like lateral conduction of water and storage.
Cambia play a vital role in the plant's growth and development, allowing it to increase in girth and strength over time. The formation of cambial cells provides structural support and facilitates the transport of water, minerals, and sugars throughout the plant. This tissue is particularly significant in perennial plants, such as trees, as it is responsible for their ability to develop extensive secondary growth and persist for multiple growing seasons.
