What is sclerenchyma? Describe location, structure, and economic importance of this tissue.

• Sclerenchyma is simple permanent tissue, consisting of dead cells.

Location:

They are found in stems (around the vascular bundle), roots, veins of leaves, hard coverings of seeds and nuts, and many more.

Structure of Sclerenchyma:

• It is a dead tissue with dead cells that are devoid of protoplasm.
  
• The cell walls are thickened due to lignification.
  
• The cavity/lumen is nearly absent due to lignified walls.
  
• The cells are closely packed and lack intercellular spaces.

Economic importance:

Husk of coconut is made of sclerenchymatous tissue. It is present in the mesocarp of the fruit of coconut (Nariyal) and yields coir, a well-known fibre used for mats, cordage (ropes and cords), brushes, etc.