An anatomical study of Lepidium graminifolium L. (Brassicaceae)
Bülent Olcay, Şükran KültürBackground and Aims: Many taxonomic studies on Lepidium species grown in Türkiye have been conducted to illuminate its morphological characteristics. Although many morphological studies occur, only a few anatomical studies are found on Lepidium species worldwide. The aim of this study is to reveal the anatomical features of Lepidium graminifolium.
Methods: In order to determine the anatomical features of L. graminifolium, plant samples were collected and preserved in 70% ethanol, and then all sections were cut separated by hand with a razor blade and stained with Sartur reagent. Microscopic slides were prepared and examined using the light microscope, Olympus BH-2. Photographs were taken with the light microscope and measurements were made using the ImageJ© program. Stomatal indices were calculated using the formula SI (%) = (S/S+E) × 100, where S is the number of stomata per unit area, and E is the number of epidermal cells per unit area.
Results: The results elucidate on the anatomical features of the root, stem, leaf and petiole. A table was prepared by taking measurements of the anatomical structures to present the anatomical characteristics of L. graminifolium. This study is the first to elucidate upon the anatomical features of L. graminifolium.
Conclusion: Two important structures are mentioned among Lepidium species that can be used as distinguishing characteristics: the morphology of the trichomes and the type of stomata. Compared with other studies, the stoma type of L. graminifolium was found to differ from other Lepidium species. The anatomical features that may differ among other Lepidium species are the sclerenchymatous fibers observed in the root, the bifacial type of the leaf mesophyll, and the sparse distribution of unicellular glandular hairs on both the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of the leaves.
