Morphological variability of the leaf epidermis in selected taxa of the genus Ficus L. (Moraceae) and its taxonomic implications

Małgorzata Klimko,Mariola Truchan

doi:10.5586/asbp.2006.038

Abstract

The leaf epidermis of 36 taxa (species, subspecies, varieties and cultivars) of the genus Ficus (subgenera Ficus, Synoecia, Sycomorus, Pharmacosycea and Urostigma) was observed under LM and SEM. Characteristics of the epidermis are of particular taxonomic as well as phylogenetic interest because they differ conspicuously between species. The differences are especially prominent in the size and shape of epidermal cells, the shape of cell walls, peristomatal cuticular rim, the distribution and position of stomata, lithocysts, hydathodes, trichomes, and the types of wax, cuticle and trichomes. Results of this study provided data on new qualitative and quantitative traits of the leaf epidermis in the selected taxa, and confirmed the classification suggested by Berg (1989).

Highlights

The first and very simple subdivision of Ficus was designed by Thunberg in 1786 and adopted by Vahl in 1805 (Berg 2003a)
Many studies have contributed to the taxonomy of the genus Ficus and the number of species described has increased considerably
The aims of this study were: (1) to analyse in detail the sculpture of the leaf epidermis of Ficus taxa; and (2) to identify the traits that are of diagnostic value for the differentiation of species and their cultivars in the vegetative stage

Summary

Introduction

The first and very simple subdivision of Ficus was designed by Thunberg in 1786 and adopted by Vahl in 1805 (Berg 2003a). In 1844-1845 Gasparrini divided the genus Ficus L. into several genera. This concept was initially adopted by Miquel, who studied the genus Ficus worldwide (Berg 1989). Miquel (1847) decided to unite the previously distinguished genera into a single genus again, in which the former genera became elements of the primary subdivision of the genus. He provided a survey of approximately 550 species recognized at that time. Many studies have contributed to the taxonomy of the genus Ficus and the number of species described has increased considerably. The genus includes a large number of indoor ornamental plants

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion