Living mechanical tissue is
(a) collenchyma
(b) parenchyma
(c) sclerenchyma
(d) complex tissue

Options

A. collenchyma
B. parenchyma
C. sclerenchyma
D. complex tissue

Answer

To solve the question "Living mechanical tissue is", we need to analyze the options provided and understand the characteristics of each type of tissue mentioned.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Definition of Mechanical Tissue**:
- Mechanical tissues in plants provide structural support. They help maintain the shape and integrity of the plant body.

2. **Evaluate Each Option**:
- **(a) Collenchyma**: This tissue is characterized by living cells with irregularly thickened cell walls. It provides flexible support to growing parts of the plant, making it a living mechanical tissue.
- **(b) Parenchyma**: This is a type of living tissue with thin cell walls. While it serves various functions (like storage and photosynthesis), it does not primarily provide mechanical support, so it is not classified as a mechanical tissue.
- **(c) Sclerenchyma**: This tissue consists of dead cells with thick, lignified walls. It provides rigid support but is not living, so it cannot be classified as a living mechanical tissue.
- **(d) Complex Tissue**: This term refers to tissues that are made up of more than one type of cell (like xylem and phloem). While they may have supportive functions, they are not specifically classified as living mechanical tissues.

3. **Identify the Correct Answer**:
- Based on the characteristics discussed, **collenchyma (option a)** is the only tissue that is a living mechanical tissue.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **(a) collenchyma**.