* Structurele ondersteuning: Spicules provide rigidity and support to the plant's body, helping it maintain its shape and withstand external forces.

* Defensie: The sharp points of spicules deter predators and herbivores from consuming the plant.

* Filter feeding: In sponges, spicules can help filter water, trapping food particles for ingestion.

* Bijlage: Some spicules can help the plant attach itself to surfaces, like rocks or other organisms.

Types of Plant Spicules:

* Megascleres: Larger spicules that provide structural support.

* Microscleres: Smaller spicules that can be involved in defense or filter feeding.

Examples of Plants with Spicules:

* sponzen: Many sponge species have spicules that are a key characteristic used for identification.

* Diatoms: These single-celled algae have silica-based spicules that form intricate patterns on their cell walls.

* Some algae: Some other algae, like some species of red algae, also possess spicules.

Opmerking: The term "spicule" is not typically used for structures found in land plants. However, some land plants, like cacti, have spines that are similar in function to spicules.