Which plant tissue consists of dead, hollow, lignified cells that provide mechanical strength and support to vascular plants?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Sclerenchyma is a permanent plant tissue composed of dead cells featuring thick, lignified secondary walls that confer high rigidity and mechanical strength to non-growing plant parts. Conversely, parenchyma consists of living, unspecialized cells mainly responsible for storage, whereas collenchyma provides flexible support in growing organs. Sclerenchyma cells primarily consist of two distinct types namely fibers and sclereids, the latter being responsible for the gritty texture of pear fruits.