Taxonomical study of Caroxylon jordanicola (Eig) Akhani & Roalson (Amaranthaceae) in Al-Tar Caves, Karbala, Iraq

Abstract

The present study dealt with the morphological, anatomical,trichomespollen grains,and ecological characteristics of Caroxylon jordanicola (EigAkhani & Roalson (Amaranthaceae) in Al-Tar Caves, Karbala, Iraq which belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. The results of the present study demonstrated that There are distinctive characteristics of the studied species distinguish it from other species and facilitate its diagnosis. The sample was diagnosed using the taxonomic keys of the Iraqi flora and the flora of neighboring countriesIn addition to some available research. The results of the morphological and anatomical features investigation provide really significant taxonomical value to distinguish the species. The results that showed that this species is annual to 40 cm, semi- spherical, lower leaves 1-3 cm, caduceus, other leaves to 2.5 mm, with broad, has non-glandular trichomes and glandular trichomes. The species recorded 7 μm the average thickness of the cuticle layer. cortex thickness was also recorded and measured, which was 210 μm. the average thickness of Phloem was 40μm, It has the presence of a bundle cap fibers (Bundle sheath) which consists of sclerenchyma fibers that appear in a ring around the Phloem. The average thicknesof xylem was 190 μm and pith thickness was 240 μm.