Collenchymas differs from sclerenchyma in

Options

A. Retaining protoplasm at maturity
B. Having thick walls
C. Having wide lumen
D. Being meristematic

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Tissues**:
- Collenchyma and sclerenchyma are both types of simple permanent tissues in plants.
- Collenchyma consists of living cells, while sclerenchyma is made up of dead cells.

2. **Cell Structure**:
- Collenchyma cells are characterized by their thickened cell walls, which provide flexibility and support to the plant.
- Sclerenchyma cells also have thick walls, but these walls are typically lignified, making them rigid and providing structural support.

3. **Lumen Characteristics**:
- The lumen is the central space within the cells.
- Collenchyma cells have a wider lumen compared to sclerenchyma cells, which may have a narrower lumen due to the thickness of their walls.

4. **Protoplasm Presence**:
- Collenchyma cells retain protoplasm (the living content of the cell) at maturity, which includes cytoplasm and organelles.
- In contrast, sclerenchyma cells do not retain protoplasm at maturity; they are dead and lack living cellular components.

5. **Meristematic Nature**:
- Collenchyma is not meristematic; it is a permanent tissue that does not divide.
- Sclerenchyma is also a permanent tissue and does not have the capability to divide.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The main differences between collenchyma and sclerenchyma are:
- Collenchyma retains protoplasm at maturity, while sclerenchyma does not.
- Both have thick walls, but collenchyma is more flexible due to its living cells, while sclerenchyma provides rigidity.

**Final Answer**: Collenchyma differs from sclerenchyma in that collenchyma retains protoplasm at maturity, while sclerenchyma does not.

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