What surrounds each stoma?

Each stoma is surrounded by guard cells, which play a crucial role in the function of the stomata. These specialized cells are responsible for regulating the opening and closing of the stoma, allowing for the exchange of gases, such as carbon dioxide and oxygen, between the plant and its environment.

Guard cells control the size of the stoma's opening in response to various factors, including light, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. When the plant needs to maximize gas exchange for photosynthesis, the guard cells swell and open the stoma. Conversely, during dry conditions, the guard cells can close the stoma to minimize water loss through transpiration. This dynamic regulation enables the plant to maintain homeostasis and optimize its metabolic processes.

Understanding the role of guard cells is essential in the study of plant physiology, as they are key to how plants interact with their atmosphere and manage resources effectively.