Tärkkelysvarastoja

Tärkkelysvarastoja, commonly known as starch reserves, are carbohydrate molecules stored by plants and some microorganisms as an energy source. In plants, these reserves are primarily found in specialized storage organs such as roots, tubers, seeds, and fruits. The most common form of starch in plants is amylopectin, a branched polymer, and amylose, a linear polymer.

During periods of high photosynthetic activity, plants produce more glucose than they immediately need. This excess glucose is converted into starch and stored. When energy is required, such as during the night, in dormant periods, or during germination, enzymes break down the starch back into glucose, which can then be used for cellular respiration or other metabolic processes.

In humans and animals, starch is a major dietary carbohydrate. Upon ingestion, it is broken down into glucose by digestive enzymes in the mouth and small intestine. This glucose is then absorbed into the bloodstream and used for energy. The liver and muscles can store excess glucose as glycogen, a polysaccharide similar to starch but with more branching, which serves as a readily accessible energy reserve.

Microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, also produce and store starch or starch-like compounds for energy. These reserves play a crucial role in the carbon cycle and in the survival strategies of these organisms. The ability to store starch allows organisms to survive periods of nutrient scarcity or unfavorable environmental conditions.