Guard cells regulate the opening and closing of stomatal pores; they swell with water, causing the pore to open, and shrink to close it, controlling gas exchange and water loss.
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Guard cells regulate the opening and closing of stomatal pores; they swell with water, causing the pore to open, and shrink to close it, controlling gas exchange and water loss.
Guard cells play a pivotal role in the opening and closing of stomatal pores. These specialized cells surround each stomatal opening on the surface of leaves and stems. The opening and closing of stomata are regulated by changes in turgor pressure within the guard cells. When water flows into the guard cells, causing them to swell, the stomatal pore opens. This allows for the exchange of gases, including the uptake of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. Conversely, when the guard cells lose water and shrink, the stomatal pore closes, minimizing water loss through transpiration. The dynamic control by guard cells ensures efficient gaseous exchange while conserving water.