No, mature xylem cells generally lack protoplasm.
Understanding Xylem and Protoplasm
Xylem is a vital tissue in plants, responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant. It's a complex tissue composed of several cell types. Protoplasm, on the other hand, is the living content of a cell, encompassing the cytoplasm and nucleus.
The cells that make up the xylem tissue are specialized for their function. This specialization includes a process where the cells die at maturity. This death results in the loss of their protoplasm. This is crucial for efficient water transport, as the hollow, dead cells create continuous tubes.
However, it's important to note that not all xylem cells are devoid of protoplasm. Xylem parenchyma cells, a component of the xylem tissue, do retain their protoplasm. These cells are living and play roles in storage and other functions within the xylem.
- Mature xylem cells (e.g., tracheids and vessel elements): Lack protoplasm.
- Xylem parenchyma cells: Retain protoplasm.
Therefore, while the majority of xylem cells are protoplasm-free, a subset of cells within the xylem tissue does contain protoplasm. The reference clearly states that mature xylem cells are "devoid of protoplasm except for xylem parenchyma cells, which are living cells".
