Tapetum is a layer of cells that surround the developing pollen sacs in plants. It plays an important role in the development of pollen and is responsible for producing various substances that are required for the growth and maturation of pollen grains. Tapetum cells can either be diploid or polyploid, depending on the plant species.

Diploid Tapetum Cells

Diploid tapetum cells are found in many plant species, and they contain two sets of chromosomes. These cells divide by mitosis, which is a process of cell division that produces two identical daughter cells. Diploid tapetum cells are responsible for producing various proteins, lipids, and other substances that are required for the growth and maturation of pollen grains.

Polyploid Tapetum Cells

Polyploid tapetum cells are found in some plant species, and they contain more than two sets of chromosomes. These cells divide by a process called endomitosis, which is a type of cell division that results in an increase in the number of chromosomes without cell division. Polyploid tapetum cells are capable of producing larger amounts of proteins, lipids, and other substances than diploid tapetum cells. This is because they have more genetic material, which means that they can produce more RNA and proteins.

Advantages of Polyploid Tapetum Cells

There are several advantages of having polyploid tapetum cells. Firstly, these cells are able to produce larger amounts of proteins and other substances, which is beneficial for the growth and maturation of pollen grains. Secondly, polyploid tapetum cells are more resistant to stress and environmental changes, which means that they are better able to survive in adverse conditions. Finally, polyploid tapetum cells are more genetically diverse than diploid tapetum cells, which can lead to increased genetic variation in the offspring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tapetum cells can either be diploid or polyploid, depending on the plant species. Diploid tapetum cells are responsible for producing various substances that are required for the growth and maturation of pollen grains, while polyploid tapetum cells are capable of producing larger amounts of these substances. Polyploid tapetum cells also have several advantages over diploid tapetum cells, including increased resistance to stress and environmental changes, and increased genetic diversity.

This is because of following 3 reasons1- endomytosis occur2- restitution nuclei 3- polytene - dna replication occur but separation doesn't takes place.