Practical 2
Examination of
Mature Plant Tissues
Introduction to Plant Tissues
Plants have a well-organized tissue system
that facilitates growth, support, and
various physiological processes. The three
fundamental types of mature plant tissues
are parenchyma, collenchyma, and
sclerenchyma. These tissues play crucial
roles in mechanical support, storage, and
metabolic activities.
Types of Plant Tissues
Parenchyma:
Found in most soft parts of the plant
(e.g., leaves, stems, and roots).
Composed of thin-walled cells with
large vacuoles.
Functions in storage, photosynthesis,
and tissue repair.
Collenchyma:
Present in young stems and petioles.
Cells have unevenly thickened cell
walls (rich in pectin and cellulose).
Provides flexibility and mechanical
support.
Collenchyma
Sclerenchyma:
Consists of thick-walled, lignified cells.
Found in mature stems, vascular tissues,
and seed coats.
Provides rigid support and protection.
Sclerenchyma
Sclerenchyma
Sclerenchyma
Importance of Studying Plant Tissues
Understanding tissue differentiation helps in
plant classification and breeding.
Knowledge of plant tissues aids in agricultural
practices and biotechnology.
The structure-function relationship in plant
tissues is crucial for botanical and ecological
studies.
Procedure:
1. Sample Collection:
Obtain young stems of a flowering plant for
cross-sectioning.
2. Sectioning:
Cut thin transverse sections using a razor
blade.
Collect sections in a petri dish with water.
3. Staining:
Stain the sections with iodine for
parenchyma and toluidine blue for
collenchyma and sclerenchyma.
Rinse with water to remove excess stain.
4. Slide Preparation:
Place the stained section on a slide.
Add a drop of water and cover with a
coverslip.
5. Microscopic Observation:
Observe under low and high
magnification.
Identify parenchyma (thin-walled
cells), collenchyma (irregularly
thickened cells), and sclerenchyma
(thick-walled, lignified cells).