Question

Mention one main function of the following.

Guard cells

Answer 1

Guard Cells:

1. These are the kidney-shaped cells surrounding the stomata.
2. Guard cells are responsible for the opening and closing of the stomatal pore.
3. Their main function is to control the exchange of gases.
4. When the guard cells are in a turgid state (swollen), the stomata open.
5. This allows the exchange of gases.
6. On shrinking of guard cells, the stomatal pores close, thus inhibiting the gaseous exchange.