Yes, stomata have pores.
Stomata are essential structures found in plant leaves, stems, and other organs. Their primary function is to facilitate gas exchange, allowing carbon dioxide to enter for photosynthesis and oxygen to exit as a byproduct. They also regulate transpiration, the process by which water vapor escapes from the plant. The pores, often called stoma (singular) or stomata (plural), are the actual openings through which these gases and water vapor pass.
Here's a breakdown:
- Stomata Definition: Stomata are tiny pores surrounded by specialized cells called guard cells.
- Stoma (pore): The actual opening itself. This is where the gas exchange occurs.
- Guard Cells: These cells regulate the opening and closing of the stoma, controlling the rate of gas exchange and water loss. They respond to various environmental factors such as light, carbon dioxide concentration, and water availability.
- Mechanism: The opening and closing of the stoma are primarily governed by changes in the turgor pressure of the guard cells. When guard cells are turgid (swollen with water), the stoma opens. When they are flaccid (lacking water pressure), the stoma closes.
- Cell Wall: The cell wall around the pore is tough and flexible, facilitating the pore opening and closing as the guard cells respond to turgor pressure.
In essence, the stomata are the entire structure, while the stoma is the critical pore that allows gas exchange and transpiration.
