Hemicellulose is a complex carbohydrate that serves as a key structural component of plant cell walls, alongside cellulose and lignin. It is a heterogeneous polysaccharide made up of various sugar monomers, including xylose, arabinose, mannose, and galactose, which provides flexibility and support to the plant structure. Hemicellulose plays a significant role in the decomposition of organic matter, as it is more easily broken down by microbial enzymes compared to cellulose, influencing nutrient cycling and soil health.
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