Which element of the phloem stores food material and other substances like resins, latex and mucilage ?

Options

A. Sieve cells
B. Albuminous cells
C. Companion cells
D. Phloem parenchyma

Answer

To answer the question regarding which element of the phloem stores food material and other substances like resins, latex, and mucilage, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Phloem Structure**: Phloem is a type of vascular tissue in plants responsible for the transport of nutrients, particularly sugars produced by photosynthesis.

2. **Identifying Phloem Elements**: The main components of phloem include:
- Sieve cells
- Albuminous cells
- Companion cells
- Phloem parenchyma

3. **Function of Phloem Parenchyma**: Among these components, phloem parenchyma is known for its storage capabilities. It consists of elongated, tapering, cylindrical cells that contain a nucleus and thick cytoplasm.

4. **Storage Characteristics**: The cell walls of phloem parenchyma are made of cellulose and have pits that allow for connections through plasmodesmata. This structure enables phloem parenchyma to store various substances.

5. **Types of Substances Stored**: Phloem parenchyma is specifically responsible for storing food materials, as well as other substances such as resins, latex, and mucilage.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the information gathered, the correct answer to the question is that phloem parenchyma is the element of the phloem that stores food material and other substances.

### Final Answer:
The element of the phloem that stores food material and other substances like resins, latex, and mucilage is **phloem parenchyma**.

---