Sclerenchyma tissue contributes to the hardness and stiffness of plants. It is commonly found in structures such as the husk of a coconut, stems around vascular bundles, veins of leaves, and the hard covering of seeds and nuts.
What role does sclerenchyma tissue play in plant structure, and where is it commonly found?
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Sclerenchyma tissue in plants provides rigid structural support and protection. Its cells, called sclereids and fibers, have thick secondary cell walls containing lignin, making them tough and resistant to mechanical stress. Sclerenchyma contributes to the strengthening of mature plant tissues, such as stems, roots, and vascular bundles. Sclereids are commonly found in hard coverings like seed coats and nutshells, offering protection to enclosed seeds. Fibers, elongated sclerenchyma cells, are often present in bundles, reinforcing plant organs. Due to their durable nature, sclerenchyma cells provide long-term structural integrity, offering support to plant parts exposed to wear and external forces.