Question

Explain plastids with its function of various types.

Answer 1

Hint: Plastids are major double membrane organelles found in the cells of plants, algae and some other eukaryotic organisms. They are essential for the photosynthesis process. They are also referred to as the storage organelles. They often contain pigment used in photosynthesis. They make use of solar energy for food.

Complete answer:
Plastids are large cytoplasmic organelles, found in the cells of plants and algae. Important chemical components that are used by cells are manufactured & stored by the plastids. They often contain pigments used in the photosynthesis, and the type of pigments present can change or determine the cell’s color. The term ‘plastid’ was taken from Greek word ‘plastikas’ which means ‘formed’ or ‘moulded’.
Type of plastids :-
Plastids are mainly of two types :-
( 1). The chloroplasts (chromatophores)
(2). The leucoplasts (Colorless plastids)
Chloroplasts may be further divided on the basis of color of the pigment ;
(a). Chloroplasts :- It contains chlorophyll and is found mainly in the cells of the leaves of higher plants.
(b). Phaeoplasts :- These are yellow or brown plastids found in brown algae, diatoms and dinoflagellates.
(c). Rhodoplasts :- These are red color plastids. It is found in red algae. It also absorbs light.
Leucoplasts are devoid of pigment and are membrane structures. They serve to store starches, oils and protein.

Note:
If the plastids are genetically engineered, they have many advantages such as high protein level production, expression of multiple genes in operons and many others. Apart from them, few common advantages are:
 (1). They help with sunlight by which green plastids make their food.
(2). Some of the plastids give various colors to the plants.
(3). Plastids help us to store molecules like starch protein or oil.