The stomata themselves are openings and do not have a color. However, the guard cells that surround the stomatal opening are green.
Understanding Stomata
Stomata are tiny pores present on the surface of leaves and other plant organs. These pores allow for gas exchange, such as carbon dioxide intake for photosynthesis and oxygen release.
Role of Guard Cells
- Stomata do not open or close on their own. Instead, they are regulated by specialized cells called guard cells.
- Guard cells are two sausage-shaped cells that surround each stoma.
- According to a scanning electron micrograph, these guard cells are green.
Stomatal Activity
- Stomata open and close in response to changes in the internal pressure of the guard cells.
- When guard cells are turgid, the stoma opens, allowing gas exchange.
- When the guard cells become flaccid, the stoma closes, preventing excessive water loss.
Other Structures Near Stomata
- The provided image also shows parasitic oocysts (brown) in the stomatal opening.
- This highlights that stomata can be entry points for pathogens.
| Feature | Description | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Stoma | Pore on leaf surface, involved in gas exchange | None |
| Guard cells | Two cells that surround the stoma and regulate its opening and closing | Green |
| Parasitic Oocyst | Pathogens that can be found near stomata | Brown |
