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NZ Plants
Dermal tissue is located on plant surfaces
The outermost surface of plant leaves and stems shields the delicate internal cells from abrasion and water loss and controls the exchange of atmospheric gasses. It is also transparent, allowing transmission of sunlight to the internal photosynthetic tissue.
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Sedum sp., leaf epidermal peel, lower surface
The epidermis of leaves contains irregular-shaped epidermal cells and pairs of bean-shaped guard cells. Photo, Larry Jensen
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Cucurbita sp. (pumpkin), a pair of guard cells, scanning electron microscope
Exchange of atmospheric gases and loss of water vapour is regulated by reversible movements of the guard cells that open and close the pore (stomta) between them. (photo, J. Troughton and L.A. Donaldson) .
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Cordyline sp (New Zealand cabbage tree), cross section of a leaf
The outer walls of epidermal cells are often impregnated and covered by deposits of lipids such as cutins and waxes. This is called the cuticle and it reduces the rate of water loss from the leaf surface. Strands of thick-walled, red-staining fibre cells lie on top of and below the vascular bundle in this photo Photo, Larry Jensen
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