Re: What is the function of cyclosis, especially the streaming of chloroplasts?

Hi Kim,

Cyclosis (for the benefit of those who do not know) is the streaming of the cytoplasm around the cell and carries the organelles along with it.

Streaming the cytoplasm helps transport materials around the cell and therefore aids the exchange of materials between and within cells. It is particularly helpful in speeding up diffusion, which is a slow process in liquid. The rate of diffusion between the destination site and the departure site depends on the difference in concentration (concentration gradient). Cytoplasmic streaming is important in maintaining the concentration gradient between the inside and the outside of the cell because it quickly brings the materials to their destination site where they are used up.

The role of cytoplamsic streaming is applicable to all organelles including the choroplasts which function more efficiently as a result. I don't think that the plant specifically benefits from the movement of the choroplasts. It is the overall process of cyclosis that is of benefit to the plant.

Richard Kingsley