Plastids
Definition
Plastids are major double-membrane organelles found within the cells of plants and algae. They are responsible for manufacturing and storing food including sugars created during photosynthesis (chloroplasts).
Analogy
Plastids are like the pantry of a cell. Just as you store food in your pantry, plastids store food (like sugars) for the cell.
Related terms
Chloroplasts: A type of plastid that contains chlorophyll and is where photosynthesis takes place.
Leucoplasts: A type of plastid that stores starches or oils.
Chromoplasts: A type of plastid responsible for pigment synthesis and storage in specific photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms.
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