Diagram of Stomata

Stomata Definition

Stomata are small pores or openings found on the surface of plant leaves and stems, facilitating gas exchange and regulating transpiration....

What is Stomata?

Stomata are pores or openings found in the epidermis of leaves, stems, and other organs of plants that control the rate of gas exchange. The pores are surrounded by a pair of specialized parenchymal cells called guard cells, which regulate the size of the stomata opening. Air, which contains oxygen and is used for respiration, and carbon dioxide, which is used for photosynthesis, flows through the stomata by gas diffusion. Water vapor diffuses through the stomata into the atmosphere, a process called transpiration....

Diagram of Stomata

The well-labeled diagram of the stomata is shown below:...

Characteristics of Stomata

Stomata are small openings or pores surrounded by specialized guard cells. They open and close to regulate the rate of gas exchange and control water loss through transpiration. The characteristics of stomata are as follows:...

Structure of Stomata

The structure of the stomata consists of a kidney-shaped epidermal cell with an opening in the center called a pore. Stomata is surrounded by a pair of specialized parenchyma cells that are guard cells. They are responsible for regulating the size of the opening and thus protecting the plant from water loss. Each pore of the stoma has a similar structure. The shape of the cells may differ in part, but the mechanism and composition remain the same. The four essential parts of the stoma are:...

Types of Stomata

Based on the size, shape, and arrangement of the subsidiary cells that surround the two guard cells, different classifications of stomata types exist....

Opening and Closing of Stomata

When conditions favor the opening of the stomata (e.g., high light intensity and high humidity), the proton pump pushes protons (H+) out of the guard cells. This means that the electrical potential of the cells becomes more and more negative. To maintain this internal negative voltage so that potassium ions are not trapped, negative ions balance the potassium influx. In some cases, chloride ions enter the cells. This increases cell volume and turgor pressure. Then, because of rings of cellulose microfibrils that prevent the width of the guard cells from swelling, and thus only allow the extra turgor pressure to elongate the guard cells, creating an open pore through which gas can diffuse....

Functions of Stomata

The main functions of stomata are as follows:...

FAQs on Stomata

1. What is Stomata?...