kovikasvisolut

Kovikasvisolut, or stony fruit cells, are a type of sclerenchyma cell found in certain plant tissues. These cells are characterized by their thick, lignified secondary cell walls, which provide significant structural support and protection. The term "kovikasvisolut" translates directly from Finnish to "stony fruit cells," reflecting their common occurrence in the hard, stony endocarps of fruits like peaches, cherries, and pears, where they contribute to the protective shell around the seed.

The primary function of kovikasvisolut is mechanical strength. Their rigid cell walls make them exceptionally resistant to compression and bending, safeguarding the delicate internal structures of the plant, particularly seeds. Beyond structural support, these cells can also play a role in defense against herbivores due to their toughness. The extensive lignification of their cell walls makes them difficult to digest.

Kovikasvisolut develop from parenchyma cells through a process of secondary growth. As these cells mature, their primary cell walls thicken considerably, and the deposition of lignin, a complex polymer that adds rigidity and strength, occurs. This process often leads to the cells becoming non-living at maturity, with their protoplasts degenerating. The interlocking nature of these cells within tissues further enhances the overall strength and integrity of the plant part. While most prominently found in fruit endocarps, similar sclerenchyma cells with thick, lignified walls can be found in other plant structures such as seed coats and bark.