Which plant tissue is primarily responsible for forming the hard husk of a coconut?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Sclerenchyma
Explanation
Three types of simple permanent tissues are found in plants: parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma. Among these, the hard husk or fiber of a coconut is primarily made up of sclerenchyma tissue.
The cells of sclerenchyma tissue are dead, long, and narrow. The walls of these cells become extremely thick and hard due to the deposition of a chemical substance called lignin. Lignin acts like a natural cement, providing immense strength, rigidity, and mechanical support to plant organs. This is the reason why the outer covering of a coconut is so tough.
Key Points
The hard outer husk of a coconut is composed of sclerenchyma tissue.
The cells of this tissue are dead and do not contain protoplasm.
Lignin is deposited in the cell wall to provide structural strength.
The primary function of this tissue is to provide stiffness and mechanical strength to plants.
Additional Facts
Sclerenchyma tissue is mainly found in two forms: sclereids and fibers. The husk of a coconut contains an abundance of fibrous sclerenchyma.
This tissue is also found in stems around the vascular bundles, in the veins of leaves, and in the hard coverings of seeds and nuts (such as almonds and walnuts).
Parenchyma primarily functions in food storage, while collenchyma provides flexibility and mechanical strength to plants.
Important Questions
Question: Due to which chemical substance does the cell wall of sclerenchyma tissue become thick and hard?
Answer: Lignin.
Question: What is the name of the simple permanent tissue that provides flexibility to plants?
Answer: Collenchyma.