NEETBotanyCell - The Unit of Life
When observing the cells of a potato tuber under a microscope, abundant colourless plastids are found. Identify the specific type of plastid present and the primary nutrient it stores.
Options
- AAmyloplast - Carbohydrates
- BElaioplast - Oils and fats
- CAleuroplast - Proteins
- DAmyloplast - Proteins
Correct answer
A. Amyloplast - Carbohydrates
Step-by-step solution
Plastids are classified based on the type of pigments they contain and the nutrients they store. Leucoplasts are colourless plastids of varied shapes and sizes with stored nutrients. Potato tubers primarily store carbohydrates in the form of starch. The specific leucoplasts that store carbohydrates are called amyloplasts. Therefore, the colourless plastids in potato tuber cells are amyloplasts. Elaioplasts store oils and fats, whereas aleuroplasts store proteins. Answer: Amyloplast - Carbohydrates