The primary difference between stomata and lenticels lies in their location, structure, function, and the types of plants in which they are found.
Stomata vs. Lenticels: A Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Stomata | Lenticels |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Epidermis (outer layer) of leaves and stems | Bark (outer layer) of woody stems and roots |
| Structure | Microscopic pores surrounded by guard cells | Raised, lens-shaped areas composed of loosely arranged cells |
| Function | Gas exchange (CO2 uptake, O2 release), transpiration (water vapor release) | Gas exchange (limited CO2 uptake, O2 release) |
| Water Loss | Significant water loss during transpiration | Minimal water loss |
| Occurrence | Primarily in leaves, also in herbaceous stems | Woody plants (trees and shrubs) |
| Cell Type Involved | Guard cells control pore opening and closing | Complementary cells fill the gaps, creating an air space. |
| Vapour Exchange | Water Vapour Exchange happens | No Water vapour exchange happens |
Key Differences Explained:
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Location and Plant Type: Stomata are predominantly found on the leaves (and sometimes herbaceous stems) of plants, facilitating gas exchange and transpiration. Lenticels, on the other hand, are found on the bark of woody stems and roots of trees and shrubs, providing a pathway for gas exchange through the thick bark.
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Structure: Stomata are microscopic pores bordered by specialized guard cells that regulate the opening and closing of the pore. Lenticels are more substantial, lens-shaped areas on the bark consisting of loosely packed cells called complementary cells. This arrangement creates air spaces that allow for limited gas exchange.
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Function: The primary function of stomata is to facilitate gas exchange for photosynthesis (CO2 uptake and O2 release) and to regulate transpiration, the process of water vapor loss from the plant. Lenticels also enable gas exchange, but their role in transpiration is minimal, helping to exchange gasses in thicker parts of plants.
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Water Loss: Stomata are directly involved in the transpiration process, leading to significant water loss. Lenticels, due to their structure and location, contribute minimally to water loss.
In summary, stomata are crucial for gas exchange and transpiration in leaves and herbaceous stems, while lenticels are adapted for limited gas exchange through the bark of woody stems and roots, with minimal water loss.
