The morphology and anatomy of the achene in certain species of sub-family Ranunculoideae (Ranunculaceae) with special reference to the achene vasculature

Abstract

The achene in 17 species of the sub-family Ranunculoideae (Ranunculaceae) was morphologically and anatomically studied to show the variation patterns of these two parameters. The surface of the achene and the appearance of the style whether normal and plumose or in the form of a beak were found to be delimitrate to the taxa studied. SEM investigation of the pericarp showed that six types of surface sculpture were recorded and the reticulate type was subdivided into six sub-types. Stress was laid upon the achene vasculature for suggesting a phylogenetic status for the studied taxa. It was concluded that less advanced taxa are those having increased number of vascular bundles (8-12 bundles). Intermediate taxa are those with three vascular bundles; one dorsal and two distinct ventral bundles. More advanced taxa are those with one dorsal and two fused ventral bundles.

Morpho-anatomical characters of the achene in certain species of sub-family Rosoideae (Rosaceae), a comparative study

“…In the latter case they remain distinct. Mourad et al (2000) working on Ranunculaceae stated that the fusion of the ventral strands is an advanced character.…”

Reproductive Biology of Dry Grassland Specialist Ranunculus illyricus L. and Its Implications for Conservation

“…Flowers typical of the genus Ranunculus , with the calyx sepals characteristically bent downwards, are self-incompatible [ 19 ]. The fruits of this species are one-seeded achenes, whose morphology and anatomical details were described by Mourad et al [ 20 ] and Gherghişan [ 21 ].…”