Foliar micromorphology and anatomy of Ugni molinae Turcz. (Myrtaceae), with particular reference to schizogenous secretory cavities

摘要

BackgroundududUgni molinae Turcz. is one of the most studied species of South American Myrtaceae due to its edibleudfruits and foliar medicinal compounds. However, there is no anatomical study of the leaves or secretory cavities.udThis paper seeks to describe the leaf micromorphology and anatomy of the species using standard protocols forudlight and scanning electron microscopy. Secretory cavities were anatomically characterized in young and matureudleaves. Histochemical staining of the cavities was performed.ududResultsududThe leaves of U. molinae are hypostomatic, have a wavy surface and possess scattered hairs. Leafudanatomical features include dorsiventral mesophyll, two to three layers of palisade parenchyma with abundantudchloroplasts, calcium oxalate crystals and internal phloem in vascular bundles. Schizogenous secretory cavities areudpresent on the abaxial surface and are mainly located on the margins of the leaves. Histochemical tests of theseudcavities suggest the presence of lipophilic substances.ududConclusionsududThis is the first study of secretory cavities in Chilean Myrtaceae. In general, micromorphological andudanatomical characters are similar to other species of the family. The present findings could provide valuableudanatomical information for future research in South American Myrtaceae.