mesophyll
Mesophyll is a tissue found in the leaves of plants, primarily responsible for photosynthesis. It is located between the upper and lower epidermis and consists of two main types: palisade mesophyll and spongy mesophyll. The palisade mesophyll contains tightly packed cells rich in chloroplasts, which capture sunlight, while the spongy mesophyll has more air spaces to facilitate gas exchange.
This tissue plays a crucial role in the overall health of a plant, as it allows for the absorption of carbon dioxide and the release of oxygen during photosynthesis. The efficiency of mesophyll can significantly impact a plant's growth and productivity, making it essential for the process of converting light energy into chemical energy.