Question

Give an outline classification of permanent plant tissues

Answer 1

Parenchyma is a simple permanent living tissue which is made up of thin-walled similar isodiametric cells. It is the most abundant and common tissue of plants. Typically the cells are isodiametric (all sides equal). They may be oval, rounded or polygonal in outline.

The cell wall is made up of cellulose. Cells may be closely packed or have small intercellular spaces for exchange of gases (Fig. 6.7 B). Internally each cell encloses a large central vacuole and a peripheral cytoplasm containing nucleus. The adjacent parenchyma cells are connected with one another by plasmodesmata. They, therefore, form symplasm or living continuum.

Parenchyma is morphologically and physiologically un-specialised tissue that forms the ground tissue in the non-woody or soft areas of the stems, leaves, roots, flowers, fruits, etc. The typical parenchyma is meant for the storage of food, slow conduction of various substances and for providing turgidity to the softer parts of the plants.