What are sclereids and what is their function in plants
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
Sclereids are a type of sclerenchyma cell that provides mechanical support and protection to plant tissues. Unlike the elongated fibers, sclereids are typically short, irregularly shaped cells with extremely thick, lignified secondary walls that make them very hard and rigid. They are found in various plant parts including seed coats (providing hardness), nutshells, pulp of fruits like pears (causing the gritty texture), and leaf tissues. Sclereids protect seeds, deter herbivores, and provide structural strength to plant organs. Their diverse shapes include stone cells, branched sclereids, and rod-shaped forms, each adapted to specific protective or supportive functions.
Suggested Q&A
General · Class 12- GeneralClass 12Electric Field at Centre of Ring with Non-Uniform Charge Distribution. Four quadrants carry linear charge densities: +2λ, −2λ, +λ, −λ. Find electric field at centre.
- GeneralClass 12P°(hexane) = 408 Torr, P°(heptane) = 141 Torr. x(hexane) = 0.300. Find Y₆ and Y₇.
- GeneralClass 122N₂O₅(g) → 4NO₂(g) + O₂(g). Initial P = 50 mmHg; P at 30 min = 87.5 mmHg. Find P at 60 min.
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between psychosis and neurosis?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between prism and a pyramid?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between phrase and clause?