Plastids are small bodies found free in most plant cells. These are found absent in fungi, certain bacteria, algae and multicellular animals. The plastids can be categorized in: Chromoplasts: Coloured (other than green) plastids. Chloroplasts: Green coloured plastids Leucoplasts: Colorless plastids. All these three are double membrane bound structures, which are mainly used for trapping radiation and storage purposes. New plastids arise from proplastids by a fission like process.

Common Features of Chloroplasts, Chromoplasts, and Leucoplasts

Chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts are three types of plastids found in plant cells. While they differ in their structure and function, they also share some common characteristics. The common features among these plastids are as follows:

1. Presence of pigments:
All three types of plastids contain pigments that are responsible for their distinct colors and functions.

2. Ability to multiply by a fission-like process:
Chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts are capable of multiplying through a process similar to fission. This process involves the division of pre-existing plastids into two or more daughter plastids during cell division.

Detailed Explanation:

1. Presence of pigments:
Chloroplasts are known for their green pigments called chlorophylls, which are crucial in the process of photosynthesis. Chlorophylls absorb light energy and convert it into chemical energy.

Chromoplasts, on the other hand, contain various pigments such as carotenoids (red, orange, and yellow pigments) and anthocyanins (purple, blue, and red pigments). These pigments are responsible for the bright colors of fruits, flowers, and other plant organs.

Leucoplasts lack pigments, and their main role is to store various substances such as starch, proteins, and lipids. They are found in non-photosynthetic tissues like roots, tubers, and seeds.

2. Ability to multiply by a fission-like process:
Plastids, including chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts, are derived from the division of pre-existing plastids. This process is similar to fission, where a single plastid divides to form two or more daughter plastids. This ability allows plastids to increase in number during cell division and development.

During plant cell division, plastids replicate their DNA, and the copies segregate into daughter plastids. The division of plastids ensures that each daughter cell receives an adequate number of plastids for their specific function.

In conclusion, chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts share some common features such as the presence of pigments and the ability to multiply through a fission-like process. However, they differ in their pigments and functions. Chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis, chromoplasts are responsible for pigmentation, and leucoplasts store various substances.