• Question: What is stomata

    Asked by anon-359859 on 21 Mar 2023.
    • Photo: Alexandra Milliken

      Alexandra Milliken answered on 21 Mar 2023:


      Stomata are small holes (also known as pores) on the surface of the leaf, that allow carbon dioxide to enter into a plant from the atmosphere. Whilst also allowing water to exit the leaf, which helps the plant keep cool. They are a major regulator of photosynthesis and cooling.

      The stomatal pore is controlled by two guard cells that surround the pore, which change their shape (via changes in turgor pressure) to open and close the pore. Closed stomata help to keep water in, which is important when water availability is low.

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