Dicot plants exhibit several distinct types of stomata, categorized based on the arrangement and characteristics of the subsidiary cells (specialized epidermal cells surrounding the guard cells). These types include anisocytic, anomocytic, paracytic, diacytic, and actinocytic.
Types of Stomata in Dicot Plants
Here's a breakdown of the different stomatal types found in dicot plants:
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Anisocytic (Irregular-celled): Characterized by three subsidiary cells surrounding the guard cells, with one subsidiary cell being distinctly smaller than the other two. This type is also known as cruciferous stomata.
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Anomocytic (Irregular-celled): This type lacks any distinct subsidiary cells. The guard cells are surrounded by ordinary epidermal cells that are similar in size, shape, and appearance to the other epidermal cells. This is also known as ranunculaceous stomata.
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Paracytic (Parallel-celled): Features one or more subsidiary cells on each side of the guard cells, arranged parallel to the long axis of the stomatal pore. This type is also known as rubiaceous stomata.
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Diacytic (Cross-celled): Has two subsidiary cells surrounding the guard cells. These subsidiary cells are arranged with their common wall perpendicular to the long axis of the stomatal pore. This type is also known as caryophyllaceous stomata.
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Actinocytic (Radiating-celled): Possesses subsidiary cells arranged in a radiating manner around the guard cells, resembling a star. This type is less common than the other four types.
In summary, the diverse stomatal types in dicot plants reflect variations in the structure and arrangement of subsidiary cells, which play a role in regulating stomatal function and gas exchange.
