Question

Why is sclerenchyma a dead tissue?

Answer 1

Sclerenchyma:

1. Sclerenchyma is the ground or fundamental tissue of the plants.
2. Sclerenchyma cells are found mostly in the cortex of stem and leaf. It's main function is to provide support.
3. The mature cells of this tissue are generally dead and have thick walls called the lignin which varies in size, shape and structure.
4. The sclerenchyma is called the dead tissue because it lack protoplasm and has thick secondary walls which do not elongate during cell growth.
5. Hence, mature cells get destroyed inside the sclerenchyma tissues. Example: coconut, jute etc.