Amyloplasts

Definition

Amyloplasts are specialized organelles in plant cells responsible for the synthesis and storage of starch. They are a type of plastid that plays a crucial role in converting glucose into starch for long-term energy storage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amyloplasts are primarily found in non-photosynthetic tissues such as roots, tubers, and seeds.
2. They can convert stored starch back into sugar when the plant requires energy.
3. Amyloplasts also play a role in plant gravity sensing by sedimenting under the influence of gravity, aiding root orientation.
4. They contain enzymes like amylase that are essential for the biochemical conversion processes involving starch.
5. Amyloplasts originate from proplastids and can differentiate into other types of plastids depending on the cell’s needs.

Review Questions

Related terms

Chloroplast:

Organelles responsible for photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

Leucoplast: A type of plastid involved in the storage of macromolecules such as lipids, proteins, and starches.

Proplastid: Undifferentiated precursor organelles that can develop into various types of plastids depending on cellular conditions.