| Plant Cells and Tissues | ||||||||||||||||||||
| The Structure and Function of Plant Cells and Tissues | ||||||||||||||||||||
As a plant matures, its cells become specialized. There are a number of important specialized plant cell types. Plant Cell Types Some examples of specialized plant cells include: Parenchyma Cells Parenchyma cells are usually depicted as the "typical" plant cell because they are not very specialized. These cells synthesize and store organic products in the plant. Most of the plant's metabolism takes place in these cells.
Collenchyma Cells Collenchyma cells have a support function in plants, particularly in young plants. These cells help to support plants while not restraining growth due to their lack of secondary walls and the absence of a hardening agent in their primary walls. Sclerenchyma Cells Sclerenchyma cells also have a support function in plants but unlike collenchyma cells, they have a hardening agent and are much more rigid. Water Conducting Cells Water conducting cells of xylem are usually of two types, tracheids and vessel elements. Both allow water to flow to different parts of a plant. Sieve Tube Members Sieve tube members of phloem conduct organic nutrients such as sugar throughout the plant. Share Your Opinions Have questions about specialized plant cells? Come on over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions and feelings. Until next time...
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