The primary function of the storage vacuole is to act as a storage compartment within cells.
Detailed Explanation of Storage Vacuole Functions
Storage vacuoles, especially prominent in plant cells, serve a variety of crucial roles related to storage. According to the reference material, they store:
- Free amino acids
- Sugars
- Ions
These stored substances can be mobilized and used by the cell as needed. Furthermore, the tonoplast, the membrane surrounding the vacuole, contains channel proteins facilitating the transport of key molecules.
Functions Summarized
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage | Holds free amino acids, sugars, and ions. |
| Transport facilitation | The tonoplast enables transport of crucial molecules across the membrane. |
In essence, storage vacuoles are vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis and providing resources for growth and other essential processes.
