RBCs are biconcave disc shaped whereas nerve cells are long and branched. Why do cells have such different shapes?
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Answer:
In humans, as in all mammals, the mature RBC lacks a nucleus. This allows the cell more room to store hemoglobin, the oxygen-binding protein, enabling the RBC to transport more oxygen. RBCs are also biconcave in shape; this shape increases their surface area for the diffusion of oxygen across their surfaces.
Red blood cells are round and biconcave shape. This shape of RBCs increase their surface area and there is easy diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide into and out of the cell.
Nerve cells, also known as neurons, are the longest cells in the body. They have dendrites at one end which are branched nerve fibers. Thus, nerve cells are branched and long.
Tracheids are part of xylem and are elongated cells. They take part in the conduction of water in plants.