Understanding Collenchyma: Types, Functions, and Importance in Plant Cells

Give its types and functions.
Collenchyma is a type of ground tissue found in plant cells that provides support, structure, and protection to the plant. It is a living tissue that consists of elongated cells with irregular cell walls, which are responsible for the plant's flexibility and resilience. Collenchyma cells are found just beneath the epidermal layer of the plant and are typically larger than other ground tissue cells.
There are two main types of collenchyma:
1. Angular collenchyma: These cells have a characteristic angular shape, with cell walls that are thickened at their corners, giving them a diamond-shaped appearance under a microscope. Angular collenchyma provides support and stability to the plant, particularly in the stems and leaves.
2. Lacunar collenchyma: These cells have a more irregular shape and are characterized by large vacuoles (lacunae) within their cytoplasm. Lacunar collenchyma is found in the cortex of the plant and helps to provide additional support and flexibility.
Functions of collenchyma:
1. Support: Collenchyma provides mechanical support to the plant, helping it to maintain its shape and structure.
2. Protection: The thickened cell walls of collenchyma cells help protect the plant from pathogens and physical damage.
3. Flexibility: Collenchyma cells are flexible and can stretch or compress to accommodate changes in the plant's environment.
4. Water transport: Collenchyma cells can help facilitate water transport within the plant, particularly in the xylem tissue.
5. Storage: Lacunar collenchyma cells can store nutrients and other substances within their vacuoles, which can be used by the plant as needed.