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ChromoPlastCaps160.jpg (9943 bytes) Chromoplasts contain accessory pigments, especially carotenoids. These are common in flowers and fruits. These are from "Bell Pepper" (Capsicum sp.) . Note that the pigments are not dispersed as they are when water-soluble pigments are dissolved in the Vacuole.
chromplst160.jpg (19899 bytes) Chromoplasts from Marigold Flowers
Alamanda160.jpg (23979 bytes) The color of Alamanda flowers is also derived from Chromoplasts
Erythrina160.jpg (16170 bytes) The pigmentation of Erythrina (wiliwili) flowers is also due to chromoplasts
Raphpol1HM160.jpg (6594 bytes) The vacuoles of Parenchyma cells can contain crystals of Calcium Oxalate. The most common form is that of Raphides. These are released when the cell is ruptured. Calcium Oxalate causes extreme swelling of epithelial cells. This would be a strong deterrence to herbivory.
RaphVacuole160.jpg (2955 bytes) Raphides are contained within a carbohydrate matrix within the vacuole. This absorbs water and expands rapidly when the vacuole is ruptured.
RaphidesLoose160.jpg (11319 bytes) These Raphides have been released from the damaged cell. You can see the outlines of the parenchyma cell in the background.
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