What is the Difference Between Palisade Parenchyma and Spongy Parenchyma?

Palisade parenchyma and spongy parenchyma are two types of mesophyll tissues found in plant leaves. They have distinct differences in their structure, function, and cell organization:

Palisade Parenchyma:

• Composed of columnar cells oriented perpendicular to the leaf surface.
• Located beneath the upper epidermis.
• Contains a large number of chloroplasts, making it the primary site of photosynthesis.
• Cells are tightly packed without intercellular spaces.

Spongy Parenchyma:

• Composed of irregularly shaped cells.
• Located in the lower part of the leaf, beneath the palisade parenchyma, and towards the lower epidermis.
• Contains fewer chloroplasts compared to palisade parenchyma.
• Cells are loosely packed with a lot of intercellular spaces, which allow for gas exchange.

In summary, the palisade parenchyma is responsible for most of the photosynthesis in plant leaves due to its high chloroplast content and tight cell packing, while the spongy parenchyma, with its lower chloroplast content and more intercellular spaces, facilitates gas exchange.

Comparative Table: Palisade Parenchyma vs Spongy Parenchyma

Here is a table summarizing the differences between palisade parenchyma and spongy parenchyma:

Both palisade parenchyma and spongy parenchyma are mesophyll tissues found in plant leaves, and they are involved in photosynthesis. Palisade parenchyma cells are columnar and elongated, oriented perpendicular to the leaf surface, and contain a high number of chloroplasts, making them dark green in color. They are responsible for capturing sunlight and photosynthesis. On the other hand, spongy parenchyma cells are oval-shaped or irregular, randomly arranged, and contain fewer chloroplasts, making them appear light green in color. They are involved in photosynthesis and gaseous exchange, with more intercellular air spaces to facilitate this function.