Capitate Glandular Trichomes Research Articles

New insight in secretory structures and secretion composition in Rhus typhina L. – Anatomical, histochemical, and ultrastructural studies

Rhus typhina is a valuable plant used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries due to the presence of biologically active substances accumulated in its organs, especially in secretory structures, i.e. trichomes and secretory ducts. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to examine the structure of glandular and non-glandular trichomes, as well as secretory ducts present in inflorescence peduncles of R. typhina. The chemical composition of the secretion produced by trichomes and ducts was assessed using histochemical techniques, including observations under brightfield and fluorescence microscopes. Two types of capitate glandular trichomes producing secretions with a similar composition and non-glandular trichomes exhibiting secretory activity were identified. The secretion of glandular trichomes was dominated by acidic and neutral lipids, essential oil, sesquiterpenes, and steroid-containing terpenes. The schizogenic secretory ducts located in the phloem produced a viscous milky substance with acidic polysaccharides, acidic lipids, phenolic compounds, and proteins. The secretion was released into the duct lumen through notches in the walls of the secretory epithelial cell facing the duct lumen. The location, type, and traits of the non-glandular trichomes and secretory structures, as well as the composition of the secreted products are considered important taxonomic features in the family Anacardiaceae and the Rhus genus. Additionally, these characters are important diagnostic markers for the pharmacobotanical identification of the species in medicinal and cosmetic raw materials. The various compounds present in the secretory structures of R. typhina may contribute to plant protection against pathogens or herbivory and probably play a role as attractants for pollinators and seed dispersers.

Fruit micromorphology and morphometry of eight wild-growing roses in Serbia

This study investigates the micromorphology and morphometrics of aggregate fruit (ripe hypanthium and achene) of eight wild Rosa species collected throughout Serbia. Field research was conducted to find roses at different habitats, collecting 1,836 aggregate fruits with 25,999 achenes from 137 shrubs. Multicellular glandular trichomes are found on the hypanthium surface, while long and short stalk capitate glandular trichomes were observed on the fruits of R. gallica, R. pendulina, R. tomentosa and R. villosa. Numerous unicellular non-glandular trichomes were found inside the urceolate hypanthium and on the surface of most studied achenes, except for R. spinosissima species. Micromorphological analysis revealed three types of exocarp ornamentation: scalariform (R. dumetorum, R. tomentosa and R. micrantha), reticulate (R. gallica, R. arvensis, R. spinosissima and R. villosa) and reticulate-smooth (R. pendulina). Morphometric analysis indicated significant differences among the 14 morphological characters. Achene length was the most significant morphometric feature for identifying Rosa species (P˂0.05). The results contribute to our poor knowledge of rose fruit morphology and provide some well-defined microcharacters that could be used as additional features for species delimitation.

Leaf micromorphology in Rosaceae tribe Spiraeeae (subfamily Amygdaloideae) and its systematic and ecological implications

Abstract We conducted a comparative micromorphological study on the leaves of all nine genera of the Rosaceae tribe Spiraeeae, including the monotypic Korean genus Pentactina. Spiraeeae possess amphistomatic and hypostomatic leaves. Leaf epidermal characteristics varied with the morphology of stomatal complexes, epidermal cells, trichomes, and epicuticular waxes. Specific leaf epidermal features may be systematically relevant for identifying lower taxonomic levels, genera, and/or species. For example, papillate epidermal cell types were consistently observed in Spiraea sect. Calospira. Hirtellous trichomes are diagnostic characteristics of the genera Holodiscus and Kelseya among this tribe. Short-stalked capitate glandular and crispate villous trichomes were only observed in Holodiscus microphyllus and Spiraea douglasii, respectively. We also confirmed that leaf epidermal characteristics strongly support the independent taxonomic position of the Korean endemic Pentactina and the transfer from Physocarpus to Spiraea of Physocarpus insularis. Moreover, we identified xeromorphic features in the studied taxa and inferred their ecological functions, such as water repellence and anti-transpirant activities. This study presents new perspectives for future research on character evolution and xeromorphic adaptation on the basis of leaf epidermal characteristics.

Glandular and Eglandular Trichomes of Endemic Ballota glandulosissima (Lamiaceae)

The aim of this study is to determine the taxonomic importance of the glandular and eglandular trichomes on the vegetative and reproductive organs of Ballota glandulosissima. This species is endemic to Türkiye and the Eastern Mediterranean element. It is among the medicinal plants of Türkiye. On the vegetative and reproductive organs of the studied species, both glandular and eglandular trichomes were seen. These trichomes were examined using light and stereo microscopes. The glandular trichomes were divided into peltate and capitate. The eglandular trichomes were grouped as branched (stellate, bicellular, and multicellular) and unbranched (simple unbranched eglandular trichomes). The stalk cell number of capitate glandular trichomes shows changes. According to the number of stalk cells, capitate glandular trichomes were grouped into uni, bi, tri, and multi-cellular trichomes. In the taxon, dendroid trichomes were not observed on the vegetative and reproductive organs. The stellate trichomes were dense on the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf, and calyx teeth, while capitate glandular trichomes were dense on the petiole, stem, leaf, and outside part of the calyx, and calyx teeth. Peltate glandular trichomes are dense on the calyx and corolla. Especially, the capitate glandular and stellate trichomes are found to have significant taxonomic characteristics in distinguishing this species.

Localisation of active substances in Hedera helix leaves and Linaria vulgaris shoots used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry

Although Hedera helix and Linaria vulgaris are considered toxic plants, their extracts containing many bioactive compounds are commonly used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. Plant secretory structures are considered the primary site of synthesis and accumulation of many valuable metabolites. The presence of secretory structures and the location of active substances in H. helix leaf petioles and L. vulgaris inflorescence shoots were detected using light microscopy and histochemical and fluorescence tests. The analyses showed schizogenic secretory ducts in the H. helix petioles and capitate glandular trichomes on the surface of the L. vulgaris shoots. The secretion and secretory cells of the H. helix ducts and the L. vulgaris trichomes contained acidic and neutral lipids, sesquiterpenes, polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, neutral and acidic polysaccharides, proteins and alkaloids. Data on the secretory structures and taxonomic and morpho-anatomical traits of the analysed raw materials may help evaluate their quality (falsification).

Micromorphology of Barleria albostellata (Grey Barleria) Flower and Pollen Grains

Barleria albostellata C.B. Clarke (grey barleria, Acanthaceae) is an indigenous shrub to South Africa and has been relatively understudied. This shrub is a valuable medicinal plant with a wide spectrum of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. Detailed studies on the floral and pollen morphology on B. albostellata are rare. This study was conducted to observe the morphology of the flower and pollen grains using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Morphological observations showed numerous non-glandular trichomes on the bracteoles and bracts of B. albostellata. Three types of trichomes were identified on these structures: I—unicellular, II—multangulate-dendritic branched non-glandular trichomes, and III—capitate glandular trichomes. A taxonomical description of the floral structures using stereo and SEM micrographs is provided. SEM micrographs revealed the pollen grains as globose tricolporate with a rough honeycomb exine, and small granules inside the lumina. The diameter of the pollen grains was 77.53 ± 5.63 μm, whereas the aperture of these grains was 14.31 ± 0.59 µm. This study provides insight into the floral biology of B. albostellata, and the results presented here will add to the body of knowledge and encourage further research on this species.

Formation mechanism of glandular trichomes involved in the synthesis and storage of terpenoids in lavender

BackgroundLavender (genus Lavandula, family Lamiaceae) is an aromatic plant widely grown as an ornamental plant. The chemical composition of lavender is characterized by monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and other compounds, which are primarily synthesized and stored in epidermal secretory structures called glandular trichomes (GTs). Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are responsible for the aroma characteristics of plant oil that drive consumer preference. Aroma is usually regarded as a characteristic trait for the classification of aromatic plants. Interestingly, VOCs are synthesized and stored in GTs. Lamiaceae species such as purple perilla, peppermint, basil, thyme, and oregano usually possess two types of GTs: peltate glandular trichomes (PGTs) and capitate glandular trichomes (CGTs). But the development process of PGTs in lavender has been reported in only a few studies to date.ResultsIn this study, we identified and quantified the VOCs in four lavender cultivars by headspace-solid phase micro extraction-gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS–SPME–GC–MS). A total of 66 VOCs were identified in these four cultivars, the most prominent of which were linalyl acetate and linalool, and flowers were the main site of accumulation of these VOCs. Here, we examined the developmental process of PGTs, including the formation of their base, body, and apex. The apex cells contained secretory cavities, which produced VOCs. Based on the reference genome sequence of the lavender cultivar ‘Jingxun 2’, several R2R3-MYB subfamily genes related to GT formation were identified. These results will guide the engineering of GTs and molecular breeding of lavender for improving the VOC content.ConclusionsIn this study, we identified the VOCs in four lavender cultivars. We analyzed the formation of GTs, and compared the number and diameter size of PGTs among four lavender cultivars. Additionally, we identified four candidate genes belonging to the R2R3-MYB family.

Phylogenetical Position versus Pollination Syndromes: Floral Trichomes of Central American and Mexican Pinguicula.

Central American and Mexican Pinguicula species are characterized by enormous divergence in size and color of flowers and are pollinated by butterflies, flies, bees, and hummingbirds. It is known that floral trichomes are key characters in plant-pollinator interaction. The main aim of our study was to verify our hypothesis that the distribution and diversity of non-glandular and glandular trichomes are related to the pollinator syndromes rather than the phylogenetic relationships. The studied sample consisted of Central American and Mexican species. In our study, we relied on light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with a phylogenetic perspective based on ITS DNA sequences. The flower morphology of species pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds was similar in contrast to species pollinated by flies and bees. Species pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds contained low diversity of non-glandular trichomes, which occurred mostly in the tube and basal part of the spur. Surprisingly, in P. esseriana and P. mesophytica, non-glandular trichomes also occurred at the base of lower lip petals. In the case of species pollinated by flies/bees, we observed a high variety of non-glandular trichomes, which occurred on the surface of corolla petals, in the tube, and at the entrance to the spur. Furthermore, we did not identify any non-glandular trichomes in the spur. The capitate glandular trichomes were of similar morphology in all examined species. There were minor differences in the shape of the trichome head, as well as the length and the number of stalk cells. The distribution and the diversity of non-glandular and glandular trichomes and pollinator syndromes were mapped onto a phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus. Most micromorphological characters appear to be associated more with floral adaptation to pollinators and less with phylogeny.

Distinctive foliar features and volatile profiles in three Ambrosia species (Asteraceae).

Ambrosia species differ both in their trichome types and in metabolic profiles of leaf volatiles. The current study provides tools for easier taxonomic identification of ragweed species. The genus Ambrosia (Asteraceae) includes some of the most noxious allergenic invasive weeds in the world. Due to high polymorphism in this genus, identification of species is often difficult. This study focuses on microscopic investigation of foliar features and GC-MS identification of the main leaf volatile components of three Ambrosia species currently found in Israel-invasive species Ambrosia confertiflora and A. tenuifolia, and transient A. grayi. A. confertiflora and A. tenuifolia have three trichome types: non-glandular trichomes, capitate glandular trichomes and linear glandular trichomes. Their non-glandular trichomes and capitate trichomes have distinct structures and can serve as taxonomic characters. A. grayi (the least successful invader) has only very dense covering trichomes. All three Ambrosia species have secretory structures in their leaf midrib. A. confertiflora, the most problematic invasive plant in Israel, had a ten times higher volatiles content than the other two species. In A. confertiflora, the most abundant volatiles were chrysanthenone (25.5%), borneol (18%), germacrene D and (E)-caryophyllene (both around 12%). In A. tenuifolia, the most abundant volatiles were β-myrcene (32.9%), (2E)-hexenal (13%) and 1,8-cineole (11.7%). In A. grayi, the most abundant volatiles were β-myrcene (17.9%), germacrene D (17.8%) and limonene (14%). The three examined species have distinct trichome types and metabolic profiles. Non-glandular trichomes show structural diversification between species and are a good descriptive character. Considering the anthropocentric significance of this highly problematic genus, the current study provides tools for easier identification of ragweed species.

Phytoremediation potential of Solanum viarum Dunal and functional aspects of their capitate glandular trichomes in lead, cadmium, and zinc detoxification.

In the present scenario, remediation of heavy metals (HMs) contaminated soil has become an important work to be done for the well-being of human and their environment. Phytoremediation can be regarded as an excellent method in environmental technologies. The present contemporary research explores the Solanum viarum Dunal function as a potential accumulator of hazardous HMs viz. lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and their combination (CHM). On toxic concentrations of Pb, Cd, Zn, and their synergistic exposure, seeds had better germination percentage and their 90d old aerial tissues accumulated Pb, Cd, and Zn concentrations ranging from 44.53, 84.06, and 147.29mgkg-1 DW, respectively. Pattern of accumulation in roots was as Zn 70.08 > Pb 48.55 > Cd 42.21mgkg-1DW. Under HMs treatment, positive modulation in physiological performances, antioxidant activities suggested an enhanced tolerance along with higher membrane stability due to increased levels of lignin, proline, and sugar. Phenotypic variations were recorded in prickles and roots of 120d old HM stressed plants, which are directly correlated with better acclimation. Interestingly, trichomes of the plant also showed HM accumulation. Later, SEM-EDX microanalysis suggested involvement of S. viarum capitate glandular trichomes as excretory organs for Cd and Zn. Thus, the present study provides an understanding of the mechanism that makes S. viarum to function as potent accumulator and provides information to generate plants to be used for phytoremediation.

Barrelier’s Speedwell (Veronica barrelieri Schott ex Roem. et Schult., Plantaginaceae)—Potential of Free Volatile Compounds for Horticulture

Barrelier’s Speedwell or Veronica barrelieri Schott ex Roem. et Schult. (syn. Pseudolysimachion barrelieri (Schott ex Roem. et Schult.) Holub (family Plantaginaceae) grows on dry grasslands and rocky slopes in southeastern Europe. Because of its attractive blue flowers arranged in dense inflorescences up to 30 cm long, this plant has great potential for horticulture, especially in dry climates. As part of studies on biologically active compounds in this species, free VCs (Volatile Compounds) were analyzed by GC-MS (Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry) and micromorphological features were studied by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Free VCs from aboveground plant parts collected during flowering were characterized by a considerably high content of oxygenated diterpene phytol, followed by hexadecanoic acids, pentacosane, and caryophyllene oxide. These compounds are most abundant in the composition of VCs isolates of V. barrelieri from all five Croatian localities studied. Non-glandular and two subtypes of capitate glandular trichomes were detected on the stems, leaves and calyx of V. barrelieri. Veronica barrelieri attracts pollinators with its attractive flower appearance and specialized metabolites such as free VCs, which are environmentally friendly and possible natural botanical pesticides.

Exploration Characteristics of Trichomes Shading Plant at Melati Bungur Park Malang City

Trichomes are structures that cover the surface of plants with hair-like structures and are found in a large number of plants with either unicellular or multicellular forms. Trichomes are one of the important elements in plants, because their presence can be used to identify species based on their appearance, size, type, and content of compounds in them and protect the environment from various kinds of pollutants. Road shade plants are plants planted on the side of the road that function in absorbing pollutants. The purpose of the study was to explore the type, shape, size of trichomes of road shade plants in Malang City. Qualitative descriptive research method. The research was conducted at the Biology Laboratory of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang. The study was conducted in July 2021 using a sample of 4 species of leaf organ plants for the road shade Melati Bungur park Malang City. The results showed that Bauhinia purpurea L found non-glandular trichomes, simple unicellular shape, 159µm long and 13.7µm diameter. Erythrina crista-galli L, a type of non-glandular trichome, simple unicellular form, 240µm long, and 26.9µm in diameter. Tabebuia aurea (Manso) Benth type of non-glandular trichomes, scales, diameter 76.9µm. Two types of trichomes were found in Muntingia calabura L, non-glandular with a star shape, 163µm long, and 5.7µm in diameter. The capitate glandular trichomes are 22µm long and 108µm in diameter, while the peltate trichomes are 15.4µm in diameter.

Leaf Epidermal Comparison of Phasey Bean (Macroptilium lathyroides) and Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum)

Phasey bean (Macroptilium lathyroides) and siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) are introduced legumes that become a common species in pastureland. The nutritional content of these legumes has been explored, but on the contrary the anatomical study. The anatomical trait, especially in leaf epidermal, have been used to increase the understanding in taxonomy. This study aimed to investigate the leaf epidermal variability among phasey bean and siratro. The method used longitudinal section for upper and lower epidermal, then stained in safranin 0,1%. The results show that the upper epidermal in phasey bean have polygonal epidermal cell, while the lower part and the both part of siratro have irregular-shaped. The type of stomata in upper epidermal of phasey bean is paracytic and the lower epidermal is paracytic and anomocytic. Both epidermal sides in siratro have paracytic and anomocytic stomata. The index of stomata in phasey bean is higher than the siratro, but the index of trichomes in phasey bean is lower than siratro. The trichomes only absent in upper epidermal of phasey bean. Both plants have a similar types of trichomes: capitate glandular trichomes and linear non-glandular trichomes.

LEAF ANATOMY OF YOUNGIA JAPONICA (L.) DC. (ASTERACEAE) FROM PAHANG, MALAYSIA

Leaf anatomical and micromorphological studies on Youngia japonica (Asteraceae family) were accomplished. In the North America, this wild plant is consumed as salad as a healthy diet. The whole plant is edible and has been consumed in past years especially during famine. The Chinese community has been using this plant to perform blood cleansing, to cure sore throat, diarrhoea, mastitis, shingles, sprains, and bruises. Since there is yet any comprehensive study on the taxonomic study of Y. japonica in Kuantan, this study aims to investigate and examine its leaf anatomical and micromorphological characteristics that can be used as a complete guidance for its identification and additional data for its species classification. The methods involved in the leaf anatomy included a cross sectioning method on the petiole, midrib, lamina, and margin using a sliding microtome, clearing of venation using basic fuchsin, and epidermal peel methods using Jeffrey solution. The micromorphology of the leaf was observed under a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The result of the characteristics of leaf anatomical and micromorphological studies for Y. japonica found the type of vascular bundle at petiole which was an opened system, noncontinuous ring of separated vascular bundle arranged in arc-shaped with additional vascular bundles, there were presence of mucilage cells, incomplete marginal venation, anomocytic stomata at leaf epidermis, granules and crust of wax, and multicellular trichomes with different ended and capitate glandular trichome. In conclusion, the findings have shown that the anatomical and micromorphological characteristics have their taxonomic value and can be useful in the identification, differentiation, and classification of the plant at the species level.

The Morphological and Anatomical Studies of The Aerial Parts of Abroma augusta L. from Semarang

Abroma augusta L. known as Devil’s cotton belongs to Malvaceae. The exploratory study aimed to study the morphological and anatomical characteristics of the aerial parts of A. augusta L. from Semarang. The transverse section of the aerial parts was made by a simple method (fresh preparation) and then observed under a binocular microscope with an optilab. All characteristics were observed and then compared with the references. The collected data were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. In summary, the results showed that A. augusta L. was an evergreen shrub (small tree) with orthotropic and plagiotropic branches and polymorphous leaves. The inflorenscence was found in the terminal and axillar plagiotropic branching with bisex, actinomorphic, and pentamerous flowers. The fruit was unique (obconical capsule with a rounded base and truncate-tip with 5 angled wings) including cotton fibers and numerous black seeds. The petiole was composed of epidermis, collenchyma, cortical parenchyma, sclerenchyma, vascular bundle, mucilaginous ducts, and pith. The dorsiventral leaf was composed of upper and lower epidermis, palisade, and spongy parenchyma. The stomata type was ranunculaceous (anomocytic) while the guard cell was kidney-shaped. The stomata density on the abaxial leaf was higher than that of the adaxial leaf. The stellate and unicellular non-glandular trichomes, and capitate glandular trichomes were found abundantly on the petiole and leaf blade. These morphological and anatomical studies are important to support the identification as a part of the conservation effort of the plant. Further studies are recommended to investigate the root morphology and anatomy and also biochemical characteristics of each part of the plant in order to obtain complete plant identification.

Novel Solventless Extraction Technique to Preserve Cannabinoid and Terpenoid Profiles of Fresh Cannabis Inflorescence.

Despite its use by humans for thousands of years, the technology of cannabis usage and extraction is still evolving. Given that the primary pharmacological compounds of interest are cannabinoid and terpenoids found in greatest abundance in capitate glandular trichomes of unfertilized female inflorescences, it is surprising that older techniques of hashish making have received less technological advancement. The purpose of this study was to employ organically grown cannabis and to isolate pure trichomes from freshly picked flowers via exposure to vapor from solid CO2, commonly known as “dry ice”, followed by their isolation via sifting through a 150 µ screens while maintaining the cold chain. Biochemical analysis was undertaken on fresh flower, frozen-sifted flower by-products, treated trichomes (Kryo-Kief™), dried flower, dried sifted flower by-product and dried kief. The dry ice process successfully concentrated cannabinoid content as high as 60.7%, with corresponding concentration and preservation of monoterpenoids encountered in fresh flower that are usually lost during the conventional cannabis drying and curing process. The resulting dried sifted flower by-product after dry ice processing remains a usable commodity. This approach may be of interest to pharmaceutical companies and supplement producers pursuing cannabis-based medicine development with an eye toward full synergy of ingredients harnessing the entourage effect.

Venation pattern and micromorphology of schizocarps of Gaya and related genera within Malveae (Malvaceae)

Few studies have reported the venation pattern and micromorphology of Malveae schizocarpic fruits. These reproductive structures are present in Gaya and other genera of the tribe and may prove useful for solving taxonomic problems and understanding phylogenetic relationships within. We analyzed the mericarp and the seeds of 13 Brazilian species of Gaya and 11 species of related genera to provide useful comparative features for their taxonomy and phylogeny. The samples were subjected to the herborization reversal procedure and followed methods of scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy and diaphanization. The studied species of Gaya were compared on a binary matrix of characters analyzed through UPGMA. Within Gaya, the mericarp constriction corresponds to the dehiscence lines, which may occur at the basal portion or ventrally. Two to three veins in contact with the columella (central structure to which the mericarps are attached) were observed in this region. At the upper ventral margin, we observed only one vein connecting with the columella. The exocarp exhibited simple, biradiate, stellate and multiradiated trichomes. Capitate glandular trichomes were also observed. Species from related genera (Briquetia, Callianthe, Herissantia and Hochreutinera) showed stellate trichomes. Glandular and tector trichomes were observed in Gaya seeds, while other genera exhibited only simple trichomes. Venation pattern and micromorphological characters of mericarps, as well as novel seed trichome types here reported support of Gaya support the delimitation of genera studied and highlight the isolated position of Gaya within Malvaeae.

Morphoanatomy, histochemistry, essential oil, and other secondary metabolites of Artemisia copa (Asteraceae)

ABSTRACT Artemisia copa var. copa, popularly known as “copa”, “copa-copa”, “coa”, “copal” or “tola”, is an aromatic shrub that inhabits the high Andean peaks and the Puna region of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. Its aerial parts are sold in the local markets as a sedative, for the treatment of digestive disorders, hypertension, fever, urinary, respiratory infections, and frictions to relieve rheumatism. The morpho-anatomy and the histochemistry of the aerial parts of a native population of A. copa (Catamarca province, Argentina) were described in order to determine diagnostic characters and to identify the site of synthesis and storage of essential oils and other secondary metabolites. A. copa can be differentiated from other Artemisia species by a set of morpho-anatomical features, such as the presence of entire to segmented leaves; ribbed young stems with circular to quadrangular shape; schizogenous secretory ducts distributed (1–2) near the xylem at the midvein of the leaf and the cortex of the stems; non-glandular two-armed “T” shaped trichomes with 2–4 short uniseriated basal cells and biseriate capitate glandular trichomes. Epidermal cells, glandular trichomes, and secretory ducts were associated with the synthesis and accumulation of essential oil, triterpenic and phenolic compounds. Triterpenes (lupeol, α- and β-amyrin); phytosterols βsitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol, and 24-methyl cholesta-5, 22-dien-3β-ol); sesquiterpene lactones (leucodin and achillin) and flavones (chrysosplenetin and jaceidin,) were identified in the chloroform extract. The essential oil showed chrysanthenone (76.9%), as the main component, accompanied by minor amounts of other mono- and sesquiterpenoids.

GEOGRAPHICAL VARIATION OF AJUGA ORIENTALIS L. TRICHOME, NUTLET AND POLLEN

In this study, the main features of the trichomes, nutlet, and pollen of A. orientalis, which growing in four different provinces of Turkey, were examined as detail and the results were illustrated. A. orientalis carries both peltate and capitate trichomes, as well as non-glandular ones. However, the subtypes of capitate glandular and non-glandular trichomes were recognized. The shape of nutlets is obovate, oblong-obovate and the nutlet surface sculpturing is alveolate. The shape of pollen grains is euprolate (P/E 1.59-1.7). The basic exine ornamentation in pollen grains is regulated, regulate-perforated.

Adaptation and taxonomic value of leaf anatomical characteristics of selected Ipomoea L. species

Aim: To investigate the taxonomic value of leaf anatomical characteristics and to determine the anatomical features that enabled the species to adapt to different environmental conditions. Methodology: Three methods were applied for leaf anatomy observation: sectioning using a sliding microtome, leaf clearing and epidermal peels. Results: The findings showed some common anatomical characteristics shared in all species studied, such as incomplete leaf venation, the presence of trichome and schlerenchyma cells, and the presence of mucilaginous idioblast cells in the petiole and midrib. Straight-to-sinuous anticlinal cell walls, amphistomatic leaves, and three types of stomata: parasitic, anomocytic and staurocytic were on the abaxial side of leaf lamina in this study. Peltate and capitate glandular trichome, as well as simple trichome, were all present in the petiole, midrib and lamina. However, peltate glandular trichome were only found in the root of I. triloba. Druses were observed in all species, except I. batatas. Interpretation: Leaf anatomical characteristics possess taxonomic value, especially in species differentiation and identification, that can be subsequently useful in explaining plant's adaptation to their environment.