Investigations into Trichomes and Anatomy of Saccocalyx satureioides: A Xeromorphic Shrub Endemic to the Arid Zones of Algeria
2023
Saouli, Nacira
Saccocalyx satureioides is an endemic sub-shrub thatgrows in the wild in a restricted area in Algeria, where it isprotected under national law. It is largely used in folk medicineand has been the subject of extensive investigation leading toa comprehensive understanding of its phytochemical traits.However, its morphological and cytological features remainpoorly understood. The main objective of this work wasto study the morphological, anatomical and karyologicalcharacteristics of S. satureioides and compare them with otherfeatures of the members of Menthinae sub-tribe. All parts ofS. satureioides showed an important indumentum on youngstems, leaves and calyx. Two types of glandular trichomeswere found, the capitate ones and peltate ones, with oneand 12 secretory cells respectively. Additionally, three typesof non-glandular trichomes were observed: unicellular,bicellular, and pluricellular. Trichome distribution anddensity displayed variations among different plant organs. Aswell as three types of non-glandular trichomes: unicellular,bicellular and pluricellular. Trichomes distribution anddensity showed variability among organs. Furthermore, theinvestigated species showed some adaptive traits to cope withunpredictive rainfall and the characteristic drought conditionsof its habitat in this region. These traits include the shape ofcalyx, which facilitate wind-dispersal of the accrescent fruit,leaves with a thick cuticle, and myxocarpy of nutlets. In thecourse of our research, mitotic metaphase photomicrographsrevealed the presence of 2n=30 chromosomes. To the best ofour knowledge, this chromosome count is reported here forthe first time
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