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Collenchyma cells bear a strong resemblance to Parenchyma. However, they have some distinguishing traits. They occur in groups just beneath the Epidermis. They have a primary cell wall which contains lots of pectins. Thus, they stain pink with Toluidine Blue. The cell wall is unevenly thickened, however. | ||
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The thickenings can occur at the corners of adjacent cells. This is called Angular Collenchyma. This is illustrated in this embossed image. | ||
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Similar Angular Collenchyma is seen in Piper stem. | ||
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Embossing helps to depict the uneven thickenings. | ||
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Cross-Section
of hau stem stained with Phloroglucinol. This is the
King of Collenchyma!!! Concentrate on the bright cells just beneath the Epidermis. Lignified Xylem tracheary elements stain red. |
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This image was produced by applying Hot Wax to the prior image. It does enhance the wall thickenings and gives a feeling of depth to them. | ||
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Cross-Section of hau stem, stained with Phloroglucinol, viewed with polarized light. The extremely thick walls of the Collenchyma cells are highly birefringent! The red cells are xylem tracheary elements that have lignified walls. | ||
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