Comparative fruit studies in a group of tribe Peucedaneae (Umbelliferae)

Abstract

Comparative fruit studies (macro- and micro-morphology and anatomy) have been undertaken in a group of tribe Peucedaneae (Umbelliferae) (Malabaila Hoffm.,Pastinaca L., Heracleum L., Stenotaenia Boiss., Opopanax W.D.J. Koch, andGrafia Rchb.). A multivariate analysis was carried out using Simple Matching Coefficient and UPGMA (unweighted pair group method using arithmetic averages)and WPGMA (weighted pair group method using arithmetic averages) clustering methods. Two types of dorsal mericarp surface and margin sufaces were detected:(1) reticulate with a smooth surface, (2) reticulate with a striate surface. On the dorsal surface of the mericarps, three hair shapes and four hair surface types were seen. These hairs are treated as having systematic significance. For instance, a very short triangular hair with a papillose surface is unique to Pastinaca. The shapes of the mericarp and mericarp apex at the base of stylopodium are significant features for generic delimitation. Malabaila is distinguished by its c...