Write notes on ergastic substances

Answer 1

Ergastic substances are specialized chemical compounds that are found in plant cells, specifically in the various types of cells that are not directly involved in metabolic processes, such as the vascular, supporting or protective tissues. These substances are typically accumulated in the form of granules or crystals and are often used by plants for a variety of purposes, including energy storage, structural support, defense against herbivores or pathogenic organisms, and chemical signaling.

The most common types of ergastic substances include starch, lipids, proteins, calcium oxalate, phytic acid, tannins, and alkaloids. Starch is a carbohydrate that is used by plants as their primary energy source. Lipids are also used as an energy source, but they also provide structural support to the cell membrane. Proteins are the building blocks of cells and are essential for a variety of cellular functions. Calcium oxalate is a crystal that is used for structural support and is often found in the leaves, stems, and roots of plants. Phytic acid is a molecule that is used for energy storage and is found in grains and nuts. Tannins are chemicals that help protect plants against herbivores, and they are also responsible for the astringent taste of some fruits and vegetables. Alkaloids are a diverse group of chemicals that are known for their pharmacological activity and include compounds such as caffeine, nicotine, and morphine.

Overall, ergastic substances are an important component of plant cells and play a vital role in their growth, development and survival. They are also of great interest to researchers due to their potential for use in the development of new drugs, foods, and industrial products.