AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -So, the correct answer is ‘Sclereids. ‘

Detailed explanation-2: -The grittiness of pear fruit is caused by stone cells which are also known as sclereids. Sclereids are sclerenchyma cells with thick, lignified walls that function in providing structural support and strength to tissues. It removes the stress in the fruit which is caused due to over-ripening.

Detailed explanation-3: -Sometimes known as stone cells, sclereids are also responsible for the gritty texture of pears and guavas.

Detailed explanation-4: -USA Pear Bartletts are harvested when fully mature, but before they become ripe. Pears are a unique fruit, in that if allowed to ripen on-tree, natural deposits of lignin and cellulose will develop in the flesh, causing a “gritty” texture.

Detailed explanation-5: -They are also known as stone cells due to the presence of hard walls. They are present in parts of stems like pith, bark and cortex and also in some fruits like guava and pyrus. These cells are also called grit cells as they impart grittiness to the pulp of fruits like guava and pyrus.