The upcoming discussion will update you about the differences between Collenchyma and Sclerenchyma.
Difference # Collenchyma:
1. It is made up of living cells.
2. The cells are filled up with protoplasm.
3. Wall thickening is not uniform.
4. Wall thickening consists of cellulose.
5. Lumen or cell cavity is wide.
6. Pits are simple and straight.
7. Collenchyma provides mechanical strength as well as elasticity.
8. It allows plant organs to stretch and elongate.
9. It keeps the organ soft.
10. Collenchyma has a high refractive index.
11. Being living the cells can store food and take part in photosynthesis.
Difference # Sclerenchyma:
1. Sclerenchyma cells are generally dead.
2. The cells are empty.
3. Wall thickening is uniform.
4. Wall thickening can be of cellulose lignin or both.
5. Lumen or cell cavity is usually narrow.
6. Pits are usually simple and oblique. They may be branched.
7. It is only a mechanical tissue.
8. Sclerenchyma occurs in areas which have stopped elongation.
9. It provides hardness to the region where it occurs.
10. Refractive index is comparatively low.
11. Sclerenchyma has no such function.