Morphoanatomic and histochemical aspects of Elaeis oleifera (Kunth) Cortés seed

Abstract

Elaeis oleifera is an oleaginous palm tree native to America. The fruit contains unsaturated fatty acid extracted from the mesocarp. The species is mainly used in breeding programs of E. guineensis in development of interspecific hybrids with higher oil yield and resistance to lethal yellowing. E. oleifera is propagated by seed, which requires the adoption of methods for breaking dormancy and increasing the germination rate. However, there are no studies on the morphology and anatomy of the seed and its ergastic substances; knowing its structure makes it possible to improve planting methods and make them more effective. The aim of the present study was to describe the morpho-anatomy and histochemistry of the seed, characterizing it and contributing information that assists in understanding dormancy. In seeds collected in the experimental area of Embrapa Amazônia Ocidental (Amazonas), morpho-anatomical and histochemical analysis was conducted to detect metabolites (starch, protein, lipids, carbohydrates, and phenolic compounds). The seeds vary in shape, oblong and ovate. The embryo has an oblique embryonic axis, composed of root apical meristem and shoot apical meristem with three leaf primordia. Phenolic compounds were found throughout the seed coat; there are lipids, protein, and pectin in the embryo and endosperm.