What Do Plant Cells Have That Animal Cells Don't Have

Plant cells and animal cells both belong to the eukaryotic family, meaning they have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. However, there are some distinct differences between plant cells and animal cells that set them apart from one another. In this article, we will explore what plant cells have that animal cells don't have.

Cell Wall

One of the most significant differences between plant cells and animal cells is the presence of a cell wall in plant cells. The cell wall is a rigid and protective layer surrounding the cell membrane that provides physical support, protection against mechanical stress, and helps maintain cell shape. It is made up of cellulose, which is a complex polysaccharide that gives the cell wall its strength and rigidity.

Animal cells, on the other hand, do not have a cell wall. Instead, they have a flexible and permeable cell membrane that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Chloroplasts

Another critical feature of plant cells that animal cells lack is chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are organelles that are responsible for photosynthesis in plants. They contain chlorophyll, a pigment that captures light energy and converts it into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Animal cells do not have chloroplasts as they do not undergo photosynthesis. Instead, they rely on cellular respiration to produce energy.

Central Vacuole

The third characteristic that differentiates plant cells from animal cells is the presence of a central vacuole in plant cells. The central vacuole is a large fluid-filled sac that takes up most of the volume of the plant cell. It helps maintain turgor pressure, plays a crucial role in regulating cell expansion, and stores water, nutrients, and waste products.

Animal cells, on the other hand, have smaller and multiple vacuoles that function primarily in the storage and transport of molecules.

Conclusion

In essence, plant cells and animal cells share some similarities, but they also have several key differences. Three of the most significant differences that set them apart are the presence of a cell wall in plant cells, chloroplasts, and a central vacuole. Understanding these differences is crucial in understanding the unique properties of plants and animals and their cellular makeup.