Parenkymäs

Parenchyma is a fundamental type of plant tissue. It is found throughout plants, forming the bulk of soft or fleshy parts such as the pulp of fruits, the mesophyll of leaves, and the pith and cortex of stems and roots. Parenchyma cells are typically living at maturity and have thin primary cell walls. Their shape can vary, but they are often roughly spherical or polygonal when closely packed.

The primary functions of parenchyma cells are diverse and depend on their location within the plant. In leaves, parenchyma cells (specifically called mesophyll cells) are rich in chloroplasts and are the primary sites of photosynthesis. In roots and stems, parenchyma can serve as storage tissue for food reserves like starch, or water. Some parenchyma cells are involved in secretion, producing and releasing substances like nectar or oils. Parenchyma also plays a crucial role in wound healing and regeneration in plants, as these cells can often dedifferentiate and divide to form new tissues. The interconnectedness of parenchyma cells through plasmodesmata allows for efficient transport of water, nutrients, and signaling molecules throughout the plant.