What are plastids? Write about different types of plastids.

Plastids:

1. Plastids are the double membranous structures that are present in plants only.
2. These are mainly of 3 types- Chloroplast, Chromoplast and Leucoplast.

Types of plastids:

1. Chloroplast:
   • Chloroplast are the green plastids.
   • They contain a green colored pigment called chlorophyll.
   • Chlorophyll is the key component in the process of photosynthesis which is the preparation of food for the plant.
   • Therefore, chloroplast is known as the kitchen of the cell.
2. Chromoplast:
   • Chromoplasts are commonly known as colored plastids.
   • These are present in the fruits and vegetables.
   • Different colors in the fruits and flowers are due to the presence of the chromoplast.
3. Leucoplast:
   • Leucoplasts are the colorless plastids.
   • These are present in the roots and the underground stems.
   • These act as the food storage areas in the form of starch, proteins and fats.