What is one characteristic of parenchyma cells?

Parenchyma cells are versatile and play crucial roles in various plant functions, particularly photosynthesis and storage. These cells are commonly found in the leaves, where they contain chloroplasts that enable them to perform photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy. Additionally, parenchyma cells often serve as a storage site for starches, oils, and other compounds, contributing to the plant's ability to store nutrients for later use.

In contrast, other options describe functions or characteristics that do not apply to parenchyma cells. For example, parenchyma cells are typically living at maturity, which negates the idea that they are always dead at maturity. They are also not primarily responsible for water transport, as this task is typically handled by xylem cells. While parenchyma cells can provide some structural support, particularly in herbaceous plants, their main roles extend beyond structural support alone, encompassing metabolic processes like storage and photosynthesis.