Question

What is the function of sclereids?

Answer 1

The main functions of sclereids are:

1. They are important mechanical tissue which gives firmness and stiffness; since it contains very hard and lignified wall.
2. They give rigidity and support to the cortex, pith, phloem and flesh of fruits.
3. The incompressibility of the bark is due to the presence of brachysclereids.
4. Sclereids are found in the seed coat and endocarp of the fruits which gives them hard texture so it can protect the internal parts.