Plant Development > Growth > Page 12
Simple Tissues
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As cells complete the process of maturation, they form tissues, aggregations of cells that perform specific functions. Tissues composed of only one type of cells are called simple tissues. Examples of simple tissues include parenchyma and sclerenchyma. |
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| Cells in parenchyma tissue are thin walled and are often block-shaped. Parenchyma cells remain alive at maturity and are abundant in roots, stems, leaves and fruit. The primary functions of parenchyma tissue are photosynthesis in leaves and storage of food. |
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| Sclerenchyma tissue has cells that have very thick walls and are dead at maturity. The primary functions of sclerenchyma are support and protection. Sclerenchyma cells can vary in shape. Some sclerenchyma cells are elongate, while other types are cubical or highly branched. Elongate sclerenchyma cells are called fibers and provide strength and support to plant parts. Plants fibers have been used extensively by people to make twine, rope and cloth. The cubical or highly branched type of sclenchyma cells are called often called stone cells are are found in the hard pits of stone fruit such as peaches and in the seed coats of many plants. |
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