Parenkkyyma

Parenchyma is a fundamental type of plant tissue. It is found throughout the plant body, forming the bulk of soft tissues like those in the cortex and pith of stems and roots, as well as the mesophyll of leaves. Parenchyma cells are typically living at maturity and have thin, flexible primary cell walls. Their cytoplasm is dense and contains a prominent nucleus and a large central vacuole.

The functions of parenchyma are diverse and vital for plant life. Many parenchyma cells are involved in photosynthesis, particularly in the mesophyll of leaves, where they contain chloroplasts. Other parenchyma cells store food reserves such as starch, proteins, and lipids, often in specialized storage organs like roots and tubers. Some parenchyma cells are involved in secretion, producing and releasing substances like nectar or oils. Parenchyma also plays a role in wound healing and regeneration, as these cells can often dedifferentiate and divide to form new tissues. In aquatic plants, parenchyma cells may be modified to create air spaces for buoyancy and gas exchange, forming a tissue called aerenchyma, which is a specialized type of parenchyma. The plasticity of parenchyma cells allows them to adapt to various roles depending on their location and the plant's needs.