Description and characterization of leaf anatomy of Asian Palmyra Palm – Borassus flabellifer L.

Abstract

Anatomical investigation of Asian Palmyra palm Borassus flabellifer L. was carried out, with the
following objectives, description and characterization of vascular, fibro vascular bundles and fibrous
sheaths from leaf. Comparative anatomical studies were done between lower, middle and upper
regions of leaf pinnae with reference to diversity of fibro vascular bundles and other tissues. Free
hand section of Palmyra leaf lamina was taken for anatomical and histochemical studies. Leaf
lamina segments were macerated using Jeffery’s fluid to study leaf fibres. Staining was done using
histochemical stains such as Safranin ‘O’, Toluidine blue- ‘O’, Sudan III, Oil red, Nile blue, and
fluorochromes such as Acridine orange & Rhodamine. Leaf peelings were taken for stomatal studies
and micrometric measurements. Parameters such as length & width of all cells, and wall thickness
were made and the results were statistically analyzed. Leaf epidermis is covered by a thick waxy
cuticle layer. Hypodermis is made of very thick wall cells.