The internal structure of a dicot and monocot leaf differs in several ways:
The internal structure of a dicot leaf:
- Upper epidermis: A single layer of cells that covers the upper part of the leaf.
- Cuticle: A waxy layer on the outer surface of the epidermis that helps in reducing water loss.
- Palisade mesophyll: A layer of vertically elongated cells that contain chloroplasts and perform photosynthesis.
- Spongy mesophyll: A layer of loosely packed cells with air spaces between them. These cells also contain chloroplasts and help in the exchange of gases.
- Lower epidermis: A single layer of cells that covers the lower part of the leaf.
- Stomata: Small openings present on the lower surface of the leaf, which is surrounded by two specialized cells called guard cells. These openings help in the exchange of gases and transpiration.
The internal structure of a monocot leaf:
- Epidermis: A single layer of cells that covers the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf.
- Cuticle: A waxy layer on the outer surface of the epidermis that helps in reducing water loss.
- Mesophyll: A layer of cells that are not clearly divided into palisade and spongy mesophyll. These cells contain chloroplasts and help in photosynthesis.
- Vascular bundles: Scattered bundles of xylem and phloem are present throughout the leaf, instead of being arranged in a distinct pattern as in dicot leaves.
- Stomata: Small openings present on the lower surface of the leaf, which is surrounded by two specialized cells called guard cells. These openings help in the exchange of gases and transpiration.
Overall, the key difference between the internal structure of dicot and monocot leaves is the arrangement of the mesophyll and the pattern of vascular bundles.
