Permanent Tissue
Permanent tissues in plants arise from meristematic tissues once these cells lose their ability to divide and differentiate into specific cell forms. This differentiation leads to various types that serve distinct functions in plant structure and physiology.
Types of Simple Permanent Tissues
-
Parenchyma: This is the most common simple permanent tissue, consisting of living cells with thin cell walls and large intercellular spaces, facilitating storage and gas exchange. Variants include chlorenchyma, which contains chlorophyll for photosynthesis, and aerenchyma, which has large air cavities beneficial for buoyancy.
-
Collenchyma: Provides flexibility and support, particularly in young plant stems and leaves. The cells are living, with uneven thickening at the corners, allowing for bending without breaking.
-
Sclerenchyma: Composed of dead cells with thick, lignified walls, providing rigidity and strength. This tissue is essential for the structural integrity of mature plants, evident in hard parts like seeds and plant husks.
Both parenchyma and collenchyma help in storage and transportation, while sclerenchyma offers mechanical support. The structural functions these permanent tissues serve are vital for the plant’s survival and adaptation in its environment.