User:Algrif/Idioblast

An idioblast is a specialised cell often found within a mass of homogeneous cells in plant tissue. The functions of the idioblasts is not always known, and is a subject of current research. There are three main types; excretory, tracheoid and sclerenchymatous idioblast cells

Function
Idioblast cells generally provide storage space for various biochemical compounds and minerals in both liquid and solid phase. One of the functions appears to be to encapsulate calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals which form in plant tissues as reservoirs of calcium. Plant idioblasts: Remarkable examples of cell specialization Journal: Protoplasma Publisher: Springer Wien ISSN: 0033-183X (Print) 1615-6102 (Online) Issue: Vol 46 Date: November, 1955

Another function is the storage of silica, Silicon-accumulating idioblasts in leaves of Cecropiaceae (Urticales) Journal: Journal of Plant Research Publisher: Springer Japan ISSN: 0918-9440 (Print) 1618-0860 (Online) Issue: Vol 106, Nº 4 Date: December 1993