What is the Difference Between Guard Cells and Subsidiary Cells?

Guard cells and subsidiary cells are specialized epidermal cells found in plants that play crucial roles in the regulation of stomatal pore activity and the overall function of stomata. The main differences between guard cells and subsidiary cells are:

1. Function: Guard cells regulate the opening and closing of stomata, while subsidiary cells assist, reinforce, or protect guard cells in their function.
2. Location: Guard cells surround the stomata, while subsidiary cells surround the guard cells. There are two guard cells surrounding a stoma, and two to four subsidiary cells surrounding two guard cells.
3. Chloroplasts: Guard cells contain chloroplasts and can photosynthesize, while subsidiary cells lack chloroplasts and cannot photosynthesize.

In summary, guard cells and subsidiary cells are found in the epidermis of plant leaves and are involved in the regulation and function of stomata. Guard cells directly regulate the stomatal pore activity, while subsidiary cells play a supporting role in the process.

Comparative Table: Guard Cells vs Subsidiary Cells

Guard cells and subsidiary cells are two important cell types associated with stomata in plants. Here is a table comparing their differences:

In summary, guard cells are responsible for regulating the opening and closing of stomata and contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis. On the other hand, subsidiary cells do not contain chloroplasts and serve to support, reinforce, or protect guard cells in their function.