The role of pollen morphology in the identification and classification of Plantago (Plantaginaceae)

Abstract

Pollen grains of 14 species of Plantago (Plantaginaceae) collected from Saudi Arabia were examined using LM and SEM Microscopy. The size, shape, exine ornamentation and structure of aperture allowed the recognition of three distinct pollen types: Plantago albicans–type, Plantago coronopus–type and Plantago lanceolata–type. Key to these types and keys to species under each type were prepared. The results were used to test the taxonomic disposition of the species in existing classifications.