Comparative Analysis of Vegetative Development and Leaf Morpho-Anatomy in Three Taxa of Ornamental <i>Alocasia</i> (Araceae)
2024
Krisantini | Megayani Sri Rahayu | Juang Gema Kartika | Diny Dinarti | Yunita Sulistyo Putri | Deden D. Matra | Daawia | Ni Putu Sri Asih | Melodina Fabillo
This study examines the growth patterns, leaf morpho-anatomical traits and physiological characteristics of three ornamental taxa of <i>Alocasia</i>: <i>A. melo</i>, <i>A reginae</i> and <i>Alocasia</i> × <i>morfontanensis</i> ‘Bambino’. Using optical and scanning electron microscopy, the research obtained anatomical details of the leaves. <i>Alocasia</i> × <i>morfontanensis</i> ‘Bambino’ exhibited the highest leaf growth rate among the taxa studied, showing significant leaf number increases from the 8th to the 12th week after planting. <i>Alocasia melo</i> produced 2–3 new basal shoots after 20 weeks, whereas the other two taxa did not produce any. <i>Alocasia melo</i> displayed the greatest relative water content and leaf thickness, while <i>A. reginae</i> showed the highest chlorophyll stability. This study also revealed variations in the adaxial and abaxial leaf color, stomatal width, epidermal thickness, and elemental composition among the taxa involved, with <i>A. melo</i> containing rhodium and high levels of calcium on their leaf surface. These findings contribute to the understanding of the <i>Alocasia</i> leaf morpho-anatomy and growth, which is useful for optimizing <i>Alocasia</i> cultivation and production across diverse ecosystems.
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