1. The tissue in a leaf between the upper and lower epidermis, consisting of cells that perform photosynthesis.
Usage: biology; botany

Examples

• The mesophyl of a leaf contains chloroplasts that capture light energy for photosynthesis.
• In many plants, the mesophyl is divided into palisade and spongy layers.
• The structure of the mesophyl varies depending on whether the plant grows in sun or shade.
• Photosynthesis primarily occurs in the cells of the mesophyl tissue.