The key difference between stomata and lenticels is that stomata are small openings surrounded by specialized cells primarily found on the surfaces of leaves. Lenticels are openings in the bark of woody stems, branches, and roots.
In this article, we will discuss the difference between stomata and lenticel. We will also give deep insight into separately on both.
What is Stomata?
Stomata (singular: stoma) are microscopic openings or pores found primarily on the surfaces of leaves, but also on other aerial parts of plants such as stems and reproductive organs. Each stoma is composed of two specialized cells called guard cells, which flank the opening.
Stomata are responsible for regulating gas exchange between the plant and its environment, facilitating the intake of carbon dioxide (CO2) needed for photosynthesis and the release of oxygen (O2) and water vapor (transpiration).
What are Lenticels?
Lenticels are specialized pores or openings found on the bark of woody stems, branches, and roots of plants. They appear as small raised areas or spots on the surface of the plant. Unlike stomata, lenticels are not surrounded by specialized cells like guard cells.
Lenticels serve as a route for gas exchange in woody tissues. They allow oxygen to enter the inner tissues of the stem or root, enabling respiration to occur. Lenticels also facilitate the release of carbon dioxide and other waste gases produced by cellular respiration.
Stomata vs lenticels
The main difference between stomata and lenticels is given below:
| Stomata | Lenticels | |
| Location | Stomata are tiny openings primarily found on the surfaces of leaves, although they can also occur on other aerial plant parts such as stems and flowers. | Lenticels are small, corky structures typically found on the surfaces of woody stems and sometimes on fruits. They appear as raised areas or pores. |
| Composition | Each stoma (singular of stomata) consists of two specialized cells called guard cells that surround a pore. | Lenticels are composed of loosely arranged cells with air spaces between them. |
| Function | The primary function of stomata is to facilitate gas exchange in plants. | Lenticels serve as pores for gas exchange in woody stems. |
| Gaseous Exchange | They regulate the entry of carbon dioxide (CO2) for photosynthesis and the exit of oxygen (O2) and water vapor (transpiration) from the plant. | They allow oxygen to enter the inner tissues of the stem, facilitating aerobic respiration, and enable the release of carbon dioxide produced during cellular respiration. |
| Size | Stomata are generally much smaller than lenticels and occur in large numbers on leaf surfaces. | Lenticels are larger than stomata and occur less frequently on stems. |
| Distribution | They are more densely distributed in the lower epidermis of leaves to minimize water loss due to direct exposure to sunlight. | They are usually scattered along the surface of the stem and appear as small raised structures or spots. |