The correct answer is option 3: transport food from the leaves to the other parts of the plant.

The inner bark, also known as the phloem, is responsible for transporting sugars and other nutrients produced in the leaves to other parts of the plant. It is made up of living cells that form a network of tubes. This transportation of food is called translocation.

Option 1, transport minerals and water from the roots to the leaves, is incorrect because this function is primarily carried out by the xylem, which is a different tissue in the plant.

Option 2, act as a membrane impermeable to water and gas, is incorrect because the inner bark is not responsible for regulating the movement of water and gases. This function is performed by the outermost layer of the plant called the cuticle.

Option 4, protect the plant from herbivorous animals, is also incorrect because the inner bark does not provide any protection against herbivores. This function is usually performed by the outer bark or other defense mechanisms of the plant.

Therefore, the correct option is 3, as the main function of the inner bark of a woody plant is to transport food from the leaves to the other parts of the plant.