Question

In sugarcane, sugar is stored in which cell?

• A. Parenchymatous cells
• B. Vascular Bundles
• C. Meristematic Cells
• D. Sclerenchyma Cell

Hint:

Ground tissue parenchyma cells are the general storage structures in plants.
In sugarcane, these thin-walled parenchymatous cells fill the interior of the stalk and store sucrose in their vacuoles.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) synthesizes sucrose (sugar) in its leaves through photosynthesis and translocates it to the stem for long-term storage.
Understanding plant anatomy reveals which specialized tissues and cells are responsible for storage functions.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The stem of sugarcane consists of an outer epidermis, a ring of sclerenchyma cells for support, scattered vascular bundles, and ground tissue.
- Parenchymatous Cells: The ground tissue of the sugarcane stalk is composed of large, thin-walled, living cells called parenchymatous cells (pith parenchyma).
These cells have large central vacuoles that are specialized to accumulate and store high concentrations of sucrose dissolved in water (juice).
- Vascular Bundles: These consist of xylem and phloem, which are responsible for the transport of water and photosynthates, respectively, but not for long-term storage of sugars.
- Meristematic Cells: These are actively dividing undifferentiated cells located at the growing tips and nodes. They utilize sugar for growth and do not store it.
- Sclerenchyma Cells: These are dead cells with thick lignified walls that provide mechanical strength and support, and lack storage capabilities.
Therefore, the parenchymatous cells of the stalk act as the primary reservoir for sugar accumulation.

Step 3: Final Answer:
In sugarcane, sugar is stored in parenchymatous cells.