Skip to content

What are the two main types of sclerenchyma cells?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

The two types of sclerenchyma cells are fibers and sclereids (stone cells). Fibers are long, slender cells typically found in bundles, providing tensile strength and commonly used in making ropes, textiles, and paper. Sclereids are shorter, variably shaped cells with extremely thick walls that create hardness in structures like seed coats, nutshells, and the gritty texture in fruits like pears. Both types are dead at maturity with lignified walls, but they differ in shape, length, and specific protective or supportive functions.

General · Class 12