PJB-2018-1591
Comparative anatomical studies of the stomatal patterns of some tree species of Sterculiaceae and Verbenaceae in Nigeria
Ajuziogu, G.C., Ejeagba, P.O., Nwafor, F.I., Ayogu, V.O., Nweze, A.E., Asuzu, C.U. and Egonu, S.N.
Abstract
Leaf epidermal preparations of seven species within the Sterculiaceae and Verbenaceae were examined with light microscope to determine stomata patterns and other features of taxonomic importance. Impression technique was conducted on freshly harvested leaves to reveal important foliar epidermal characters. The stomata size, index and cell wall thickness were measured following standard procedures. Stomata were only seen in the abaxial surface of all the species, with four types observed; anomocytic, paracytic, diacytic and anisocytic. Anomocytic type was recorded for Duranta erecta, Tectonia grandis and Vitex doniana while Gmelina arborea had diacytic type. Sterculiaceae species showed anomocytic in Cola gigantea, anisocytic in Theobroma cacao and paracytic in Cola rostrata. Stomata sizes, numbers and epidermal cells varied across the families. Stomatal size, index and wall thickness varied greatly within the species. Variations and similarities observed in the stomatal features provide evidence of the genetic and evolutionary relationships and therefore are of taxonomic importance.
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