How Do You Spell COLLENCHYME?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒlɪnt͡ʃˌa͡ɪm] (IPA)

Collenchyme is a plant tissue composed of elongated cells. The spelling of this word is kɒlɛnkaɪm. The first syllable "col" is pronounced with the same vowel sound as "hot" or "top," while the second syllable "len" has a vowel sound similar to "bed" or "ten." The final syllable "chyme" is pronounced like "chime." The IPA phonetic transcription helps to clarify the correct pronunciation of words and is an essential tool for those learning a new language or unfamiliar words.

COLLENCHYME Meaning and Definition

1. Collenchyme is a specialized type of plant tissue found in the stems, leaves, and petioles of many vascular plants. It is made up of elongated cells with unevenly thickened cell walls, which provide structural support and flexibility to the plant. Collenchyma cells are alive at maturity and undergo cell division, allowing for the growth and development of the plant.

   The primary function of collenchyma is mechanical support and protection of the growing plant. The thickened cell walls, mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, provide strength and rigidity to the tissue, allowing it to withstand mechanical stress and pressure. The irregular thickenings are more prominent at the corners of the cells, forming thickened bands or layers, while the remaining areas of the cell wall are thin.

   Collenchyma tissue is generally found in young or growing plant parts, such as the outer layers of stems and the midribs of leaves. It is commonly observed just below the epidermis and serves as a supportive layer, preventing the plant from collapsing under its own weight. In addition to support, collenchyma also functions in the transport of nutrients, water, and other substances within the plant.

   The presence of collenchyma can be identified through microscopy, where the elongated, living cells with thickened corners are visible. Its distinct characteristics distinguish it from other types of plant tissues, such as parenchyma and sclerenchyma. Overall, collenchyma plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and growth of the plant body.

Common Misspellings for COLLENCHYME

• collenchym
• collenchyma
• Collenchima

Etymology of COLLENCHYME

The word "collenchyme" comes from the Greek words "kolla", meaning glue, and "enchyma", meaning infusion or infusion of juice. The term was coined by the German botanist Matthias Jacob Schleiden in 1839 to describe a specific type of plant tissue that he observed, characterized by cells with thickened walls and a lack of secondary cell wall reinforcement. The name "collenchyme" was given to this tissue due to its sticky or adhesive nature, which Schleiden likened to glue.