SOBRE LA PRESENCIA DE UNA "VAINA CRISTALIFERA" EN EL TALLO DE ALGUNAS ESPECIES DE DIOSCOREA (DIOSCOREACEAE)

On the occurrence of a "crystalliferous sheat" in the stem of some species of Dioscorea (Dioscoreaceae). An endodermoid sheath with Casparian lines was recognized in the inner boundary of the stem cortex of ten species of Dioscorea from Argentina. Only in Dioscorea multiflora Griseb. and D...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Darwiniana 1990-01, Vol.30 (1/4), p.137-142
Main Author: XIFREDA, CECILIA CARMEN
Format: Article
Language:Spanish
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Summary:On the occurrence of a "crystalliferous sheat" in the stem of some species of Dioscorea (Dioscoreaceae). An endodermoid sheath with Casparian lines was recognized in the inner boundary of the stem cortex of ten species of Dioscorea from Argentina. Only in Dioscorea multiflora Griseb. and D. hassleriana Chodat there is a "crystalliferous sheath" —this denomination is here proposed— by inclusion of prismatic and rhomboedral calcium oxalate crystals. The crystal formation is related to the deposition of new cellulose walls, mostly radials; each original endodermal cell is thus converted in a 24 chambered cell. The presence of calcium oxalate crystals in endodermal position is cited for the first time. The "crystalliferous sheath" is present in lignified stems with a high increase in thickness and in a late state of growth. A brief discussion on the probable function is added.
ISSN:0011-6793
1850-1699