👉 Sclerotia are specialized structures in plants that provide support, storage, and protection for the roots. They have a tough outer layer called stroma that acts as a barrier and protects the plant from external pathogens. The inner tissue is called the sclera, which contains cells that produce enzymes to break down cellulose, a type of sugar found in the root cortex, into simpler sugars, allowing for the growth of new roots.