Question

What are the functions of paranchyma tissue and how it is responsible for exchange of gases. Where are they found

Answer 1

Function of Parenchyma

Because “parenchyma” is an umbrella term for all cells that perform non-structural biological functions, the functions of parenchymal cells are many. Here are a few.

In plants, parenchymal cells with thin cell walls and the ability to reproduce fulfill functions including:

• Photosynthesis
• Gas exchange
• Food storage
• Wound repair and new growth
• Secretion of sap
• Other specialized functions in certain plants, such as buoyancy control in aquatic plants.

In animals, “parenchymal” cells refer to the functional cells in every organ. That means that almost every function performed in an animal’s body is performed by parenchymal cells. There are too many of these functions to count in total, but some examples are:

• Perception, thinking, information storage and processing
• Gas exchange (lungs)
• Producing immune cells
• Secreting hormones (pancreas, various reproductive organs, brains, adrenal glands)
• Filtering blood (kidneys)

Breaking down toxins (liver)


Most of the living cells in a plant have at least part of their surface exposed to air. The loose packing of parenchyma cells in leaves, stems, and roots provides an interconnecting system of air spaces. Gases diffuse through air several thousand times faster than through water. Once oxygen and carbon dioxide reach the network of intercellular air spaces (arrows), they diffuse rapidly through them.

It is present in the pith of stems and roots. It is called chlorenchyma when it contains chlorophyll. It is present in green leaves. In the case of aquatic plants, parenchyma is present which contains huge air cavities. That helps them in floating. Such parenchyma tissues are known as aerenchyma.