Sclerenchyma Tissues.

Rouf Bhat CHS

Sclerenchyma:

  • Derived from Greek word “Sclerons= Hard Enchyma=infusion”.
  • Sclerenchyma cells are dead cells and they are devoid of protoplasm.
  • They are long and narrow as the walls are thickened due to lignin, such cell walls are called lignified.
  • The cells of sclerenchyma are closely packed without intercellular spaces.
  • Cells of sclerenchyma are of two types: fibers and sclereids.
  • Fibers consist of very long, narrow, thick and lignified cells.
  • Sclereids are short, irregular shaped. May be spherical, oval, Cylindrical, T-shaped, Dumbell shaped.
  • This tissue is present in stems, around vascular bundles, in the veins of leaves and in the hard covering of seeds and nuts. Husk of coconut is made of sclerenchymatous tissue.

Functions of Sclerenchyma

  • The sclerenchyma is mainly mechanical and protective in function.
  • It gives strength, rigidity, flexibility and elasticity to the plant body and, thus, enables it to withstand various strains.
  • Protective covering around seeds and nuts.
  • Sclerenchyma tissue of some plants is commercially exploited. Eg Hemp, Jute, coconut etc.

For doubts and queries contact the writer on 9906890777.

The writer is a teacher currently posted at CHS Pulwama.