Morphology, germination, and geographic distribution of Pentaclethra macroloba (Fabaceae): a hyperdominant Amazonian tree / Morfología, germinación y distribución geográfica de Pentaclethra macroloba (Fabaceae): árbol amazónico hiperdominante

Introduction: Pentaclethra macroloba is a hyperdominant tree in the Amazon estuary of great socioeconomic importance for the region because the oil from its seeds is a powerful herbal medicine. Objective: We aimed to characterize the morphological structure, the morphological adaptations in response to the daily flooding of the Amazon estuary and the biogeographic area of P. macroloba. Methods: Detailed description of the external morphology, from germination to the adult tree, was obtained from individuals located in floodplain forest, Northeast Amazonia. The occupation area and the geographical extension of P. macroloba were determined from point of geographical coordinates of botanical samples deposited in the digital collections of Mobot and SpeciesLink. Results: Adult individuals have adapted structures in response to daily flooding, such as: adventitious roots to increase respiratory efficiency and lenticels in the trunk, serving as a connection point for oxygen transport between the root and the aerial part. Dried fruit favours the activation of the explosive dehiscence mechanism, allowing the seed to be expelled long distance. Deltoid shape of the seed allows water fluctuation and more efficient dispersal. Seedling is phanerocotylar hypogeal and with one pair of reserve cotyledons that provide the seedling an extra source of energy to escape the flood. Germination rate was 78 % and the speed was 0.2 seeds.day-1. Circular buffer method revealed the presence of 123 subpopulations of P. macroloba distributed in a radius of 5 699 943 km² across the Neotropical region. Conclusions: Much of the morphological structures of P. macroloba are adaptive and evolutionary responses to the periodically flooded environment of the Amazon estuary, showing that these environments select the trees, best adapted, to inhabit the flood. P. macroloba has a wide geographical area denotes the plasticity of adapting to different environments, which may justify its monodominance in some regions.

Introducción: Pentaclethra macroloba es un árbol hiperdominante en el estuario del Amazonas, de gran importancia socioeconómica para la región, pues el aceite de sus semillas es un poderoso medicamento natural. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo fue caracterizar la estructura morfológica, las adaptaciones morfológicas en respuesta a las inundaciones diarias del estuario del Amazonas y el área biogeográfica de P. macroloba. Métodos: Una descripción detallada de la morfología externa, desde la germinación hasta el árbol adulto, se obtuvo de individuos ubicados en el bosque periódicamente inundado, al noreste de la Amazonia. El área de ocupación y la extensión geográfica de P. macroloba se determinaron a partir del punto de coordenadas geográficas de muestras botánicas depositadas en las colecciones digitales de Mobot y SpeciesLink. Resultados: Los individuos adultos tienen estructuras adaptadas en respuesta a las inundaciones diarias, tales como: raíces adventicias para aumentar la eficiencia respiratoria y lenticelas en el tronco, que sirven como punto de conexión para el transporte de oxígeno entre la raíz y la parte aérea. Los frutos secos favorecen la activación del mecanismo de dehiscencia explosiva, permitiendo que la semilla sea expulsada a larga distancia. La forma deltoidea de la semilla permite la fluctuación en el agua y una dispersión más eficiente. La plántula es hipogel fanerocotiledones y con un par de cotiledones de reserva que proporcionan a la plántula una fuente extra de energía para escapar de la inundación. La tasa de germinación fue del 78 % y la velocidad fue de 0.2 semillas día-1. El método Circular buffer reveló la presencia de 123 subpoblaciones de P. macroloba distribuidas en un radio de 5 699 943 km² a lo largo de la región neotropical. Conclusiones: Gran parte de las estructuras morfológicas de P. macroloba son respuestas adaptativas y evolutivas al ambiente periódicamente inundado del estuario del Amazonas, lo que demuestra que estos ambientes actúan como filtro ambiental seleccionado las especies mejor adaptadas al medio. Su amplia área geográfica denota la plasticidad de adaptarse a diferentes ambientes, lo que puede justificar su monodominancia en algunas regiones.

Mapping the habitat suitability of Andira humilis Mart. ex Benth. (Fabaceae) as a means to detect its associated galling species in Brazil

Host plant species have very specific interconnection with galling species. Here, we estimate the potential distribution of the host plant species Andira humilis Mart. ex Benth. (Fabaceae) to consequently locate the potential distribution ranges of its galling species Lopesia andirae Garcia, Lima, Calado, and Guimarães (2017) based on ecological requirements. The ecological niche model was built using Maxent v.3.4.1k, an algorithm that estimates species’ distributions. We found suitable habitats for L. andirae encompassing areas of the Cerrado, Caatinga and Atlantic Forest. Annual mean temperature (70.2%) and temperature annual range (13.9%) were the most critical factors shaping A. humilis and necessarily L. andirae. Our results can guide taxonomists and ecologists regarding the delineation of sampling areas as well as conservation strategies for this ecological interaction.

Seed vigor of Piptadenia moniliformis Benth. subjected to thermal stress

The objective of this work is to evaluate the influence of accelerated aging test at 41ºC on the germination and seed vigor of Piptadenia moniliformisBenth. Two experiments were conducted. Experiment 1: seeds were submitted to dormancy overcoming treatments. They were immersed into sulfuric acid for 0 (intact seeds), 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 minutes. Experiment 2: two methods were evaluated for the accelerated aging test at 41ºC, that is, the traditional method and the saturated NaCl solution method with exposure periods of 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. After each treatment, the seeds were subjected to electrical conductivity and germination tests. Seeds overcame their dormancy when immersed into concentrated sulfuric acid for 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 minutes, but thegermination was faster when immersed for 20 minutes. The different methods for the accelerated aging test, decreased the germination potential and seed vigor of P. moniliformisafter 24 hours of exposure. Regarding the method used, the saturated solution provided, in general, the best results since the seed water content was lower, thus reducing the proliferation of fungi. The electrical conductivity test showed that, by increasing the aging period regardless of the method, there is an increase in seed deterioration, corroborating with germination results, which showed that the correlation was moderate and negative and indicated that the higher the conductivity, the lower the percentage and the germination speed index. The immersion of seeds of P. moniliformisinto concentrated sulfuric acid for 20 minutes provides a fast and increased germination. The methods for accelerated agingat 41ºC, traditional and saturated solution, can be used as vigor tests to evaluate the physiological quality of seeds.

Efecto del origen geográfico en la calidad morfológica de plantas de Prosopis alba (Fabaceae) / Effect of geographic origin on morphological qualities of the plant Prosopis alba (Fabaceae)

Resumen El origen geográfico de la semilla ejerce un control genético sobre los caracteres de comportamiento de las plantas por lo cual su selección es una herramienta útil para lograr la máxima adaptación de la especie al medio. En este sentido, la caracterización de materiales de diferentes procedencias brinda información para la elección de las fuentes de semilla utilizables en programas de mejora, así como en proyectos de forestación y/o repoblación. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo establecer el efecto de la procedencia sobre las variables morfológicas que constituyen parámetros de calidad en plantines de Prosopis alba provenientes de tres áreas geográficas. Se midieron variables morfológicas de las plantas hasta los 150 días posteriores a la siembra. El efecto de la procedencia resultó significativo para la mayoría de las variables medidas: altura de las plantas y diámetro a la altura del cuello (al menos durante los primeros 3 meses de viverización), volumen de raíz, peso foliar específico y área foliar específica. Así mismo algunos de los índices y cocientes morfológicos considerados como variables para determinar la calidad de plantas resultan afectados por el origen geográfico del material: relación longitud parte aérea/parte radical, coeficiente de esbeltez e índice de esbeltez. Los resultados permiten afirmar que en P. alba la procedencia influye sobre la morfología de las plantas y determina la existencia de dos grupos diferentes: por un lado, las procedencias santiagueña y chaqueña y, por otro, la procedencia Salta Norte.

Abstract Seed provenance has a genetic control over the behavioral characteristics of plants, whereby selection is an useful tool to achieve the maximum adaptation of the species to the environment. In this sense, different provenance materials characterization provides information for choosing seed sources used in breeding programs, as well as afforestation and/or reforestation projects. The aim of this work was established provenance´s effect on morphological variables that constitute quality parameters in Prosopis alba seedlings from three geographic areas. Morphological plants´ variables were measured up to 150 days after planting. Provenance effect was significant for most of measured variables: plant´s height, neck diameter (at least during the first 3 months of nursery), root volume, specific leaf weight and specific leaf area. Likewise, some of the morphological indices and quotients considered variables to determine plants´ quality are affected by material´s geographical origin: shoot length/ root length proportion, slenderness coefficient and index. Results allow affirming P. alba´s provenance influences plants´ morphology determining the existence of two different groups: on one hand Santiago del Estero and Chaco provenances, and on the other, Salta Norte origin. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(2): 593-604. Epub 2018 June 01.

Plant antiherbivore defenses in Fabaceae species of the Chaco / Defesas das plantas anti-herbivoria em espécies de Fabaceae do Chaco

Abstract The establishment and maintenance of plant species in the Chaco, one of the widest continuous areas of forests in the South American with sharp climatic variations, are possibly related to biological features favoring plants with particular defenses. This study assesses the physical and chemical defenses mechanisms against herbivores of vegetative and reproductive organs. Its analyses of 12 species of Fabaceae (Leguminosae) collected in remnants of Brazilian Chaco shows that 75% present structural defense characters and 50% have chemical defense - defense proteins in their seeds, like protease inhibitors and lectins. Physical defenses occur mainly on branches (78% of the species), leaves (67%), and reproductive organs (56%). The most common physical characters are trichomes and thorns, whose color represents a cryptic character since it does not contrast with the other plant structures. Defense proteins occur in different concentrations and molecular weight classes in the seeds of most species. Protease inhibitors are reported for the first time in seeds of: Albizia niopoides, Anadenanthera colubrina, Mimosa glutinosa, Prosopis rubriflora, and Poincianella pluviosa. The occurrence of physical and chemical defenses in members of Fabaceae indicate no associations between defense characters in these plant species of the Chaco.

Resumo O estabelecimento e a manutenção de espécies no Chaco, uma planície semi-árida da América do Sul com variações climáticas importantes, possivelmente estão relacionados a características biológicas que favorecem as plantas detentoras de defesas particulares. Este estudo teve como objetivos avaliar os mecanismos de defesa física e química anti-herbivoria em órgãos vegetativos e reprodutivos. Analisamos 12 espécies da família Fabaceae (Leguminosae) obtidas em remanescentes de Chaco brasileiro. Observamos que 75% das espécies estudadas apresentam atributo de defesa física e 50% possuem defesa química - proteínas de defesa nas sementes, como inibidores de protease e lectinas. As defesas físicas ocorrem principalmente nos ramos (78% das espécies), nos órgãos reprodutivos (56% das espécies) e nas folhas (67%). Os atributos físicos mais frequentes são tricomas e espinhos, cuja coloração não contrastante com as demais estruturas das plantas representa um caráter críptico. Proteínas de defesa ocorrem nas sementes da maioria das espécies, com diferentes concentrações e classes de pesos moleculares. Inibidores de protease nas sementes estão sendo relatados pela primeira vez em: Albizia niopoides, Anadenanthera colubrina, Mimosa glutinosa, Prosopis rubriflora e Poincianella pluviosa. A ocorrência de defesas física e química entre os membros de Fabaceae indica que não há associações entre as características de defesa das espécies de plantas avaliadas no Chaco.

Growth responses and accumulation of soluble sugars in Inga marginata Wild. (Fabaceae) subjected to flooding under contrasting light conditions / Respostas de crescimento e acúmulo de açúcares solúveis em Inga marginata Willd. (Fabaceae) submetida ao alagamento e sob condições contrastantes de luminosidade

Abstract Flood events in riparian forests of southern Brazil, can be characterized as unpredictable and of low magnitude with an average duration of less than 15 days. Inga marginata is an evergreen tree which grows in Southeast South America on a wide range of environments, including riparian forests. In this paper, the interactive effects of the light environment and soil flooding on morphological parameters of I. marginata were examined. Seedlings were acclimated in two contrasting light conditions: sun or shade for 30 days. Sun and shade plants were subjected to soil flooding for two periods; five or 15 days. After 5 days, the interaction between flooding and light did not affect growth, chlorophyll content and dry mass or the root-shoot ratio. After 15 days, flooded plants from the sunny treatment had a lower shoot dry mass compared to control sun plants and flooded plants from the shaded treatment. Moreover, the higher dry mass observed for shade plants compared to sun plants, following flooding, can also be directly associated with a higher content of soluble sugars. Shade plants of I. marginata showed a greater acclimation to soil waterlogging. This acclimation appears to be associated with a larger accumulation of soluble sugars compared to non-flooded plants. The responses observed on the shade plants appear to be decisive to indicate the use of I. marginata in degraded areas.

Resumo As inundações em florestas ripárias do Sul do Brasil, podem ser caracterizadas como imprevisíveis e de baixa magnitude com uma duração média de menos de 15 dias. Inga marginata é uma árvore que cresce no sudeste da América do Sul em uma grande variedade de ambientes, incluindo matas ciliares. Neste trabalho, os efeitos combinados da luminosidade e do e alagamento do solo nos parâmetros morfológicos de I. marginata foram examinados. As plântulas foram aclimatadas em duas condições contrastantes de luminosidade: sol e sombra por 30 dias. Plantas de sol e sombra foram submetidas ao alagamento do solo por dois períodos; cinco ou 15 dias. Após 5 dias, a interação entre a inundação e luminosidade não afetou o crescimento, teor de clorofila e massa seca e a razão raiz-parte aérea. Após 15 dias, plantas de sol sob inundação apresentaram menor massa seca na parte aérea em relação as plantas controle de sol e as plantas alagadas de sombra. Além disso, a maior massa seca observada nas plantas de sombra em comparação com plantas de sol, sob inundação, pode ser diretamente associado com um maior teor de açúcares solúveis. Plantas de sombra de I. marginata mostraram uma maior aclimatação ao encharcamento do solo. Esta aclimatação parece estar associada com um maior acúmulo de açúcares solúveis em comparação com as plantas não-inundadas. As respostas observadas nas plantas de sombra parecem ser determinantes para a indicação do uso de I. marginata em áreas degradadas.

Seed predation food web, nutrient availability, and impact on the seed germination of Senegalia tenuifolia (Fabaceae) / Red alimentaria de depredación de semillas, disponibilidad de nutrientes e impacto sobre la germinación de las semillas de Senegalia tenuifolia (Fabaceae)

Abstract:Food web studies, which include qualitative and quantitative information about species interactions for all trophic levels in a specific community, are important tools to characterize the community structure, and to understand the role of species interaction in natural communities. With this aim, we collected fruits of Senegalia tenuifolia from a total of nine sites from three different areas in Minas Gerais, from June to August 2011. Fruits were collected and taken to the laboratory in special containers, to allow insect development and description. And then, we characterized the food web of insects associated with these seeds, and described interactions between these organisms and the host plant, and assessed the impact of insect attacks on seed germination with an experiment under controlled conditions. Additionally, we estimated the available NPK content and the Carbon:Nitrogen ratio in both fruits and seeds. In S. tenuifolia seeds, we have found 937 associated insects of 15 species structured in four trophic levels. We found two Bruchinae seed-feeders species: Merobruchus terani and Stator maculatopygus. We also have observed the seed-feeding hymenopteran species Allorhogas sp. 1 and Prodecatoma sp. 1, and hymenopteran parasitoids species such as Eupelmus sp.1, Lyrcus sp.1, Eurytoma sp.1, Horismenu s sp.1, Chelonus sp.1, Aprostocetus sp.1, Eiphosoma sp.1 and an unidentified Pteromalinae. Considering quantitative food web metrics, our data have suggested low values of generality and high values of trophic vulnerability, besides others, which demonstrated how species interactions are specialized. The impact of seed-feeding insects on seeds was found severe and prevented their germination. Lastly, seeds contained higher NPK content than fruits. In conclusion, the seed predation food web supported by S. tenuifolia has depicted two different features: specialized species interactions, considering parasitoids and seed-feeding species, and, generalized species interactions, considering host-plant and seed-feeding species. Indeed, seeds are resources with high nutrient concentration supporting a rich and complex food web. Finally, S. tenuifolia seeds are directly impacted by seed-feeding insects, preventing them from germination, which could result in a negative effect on host-plant population.

Resumen:Estudios de redes alimentarias, que incluyen información cualitativa y cuantitativa sobre las interacciones entre especies para todos los niveles tróficos en una comunidad específica, son herramientas importantes para caracterizar la estructura de la comunidad, y para comprender el papel de la interacción de las especies en las comunidades naturales. Con este objetivo, se recolectaron frutos de Senegalia tenuifolia de un total de nueve sitios de tres áreas diferentes, en Minas Gerais, entre junio y agosto 2011. Los frutos fueron recolectados y llevados al laboratorio en contenedores especiales, para permitir el desarrollo y descripción del insecto. Luego, se caracterizó la red alimentaria de los insectos asociados a estas semillas, se describieron las interacciones entre estos organismos y la planta hospedera, y se evaluó el impacto del ataque de insectos en la germinación de semillas mediante un experimento en condiciones controladas. Además, se estimó el contenido de NPK y la relación carbono:nitrógeno en frutos y en semillas. En semillas de S. tenuifolia, se encontraron 937 insectos de 15 especies estructuradas en cuatro niveles tróficos. Se encontraron dos especies de Bruchinae que se alimentan de semillas: Merobruchus terani y Stator maculatopygus. También se observaron especies de himenópteros que se alimentan de semillas: Allorhogas sp. 1 y Prodecatoma sp. 1, y especies de himenópteros parasitoides como: Eupelmus sp.1, Lyrcus sp.1, Eurytoma sp.1, Horismenus sp.1, Chelonus sp.1, Aprostocetus sp.1, Eiphosoma sp.1 y un Pteromalinae no identificado. Nuestros datos sugieren valores bajos de generalidad trófica y valores altos de vulnerabilidad trófica, además de otros, lo que demuestra cómo las interacciones entre especies son especializadas. El impacto en las semillas de los insectos que se alimentan de estas es severo e impidió su germinación. Por último, las semillas tenían un mayor contenido de NPK que los frutos. En conclusión, la red alimentaria de depredación de semillas con S. tenuifolia tiene dos características: interacciones de especies especializadas, considerando parasitoides y especies comedoras de semillas, e interacciones generalizadas entre especies, teniendo en cuenta la planta hospedera y las especies comedoras de semillas. De hecho, las semillas son recursos con alta concentración de nutrientes que proveen una rica y compleja red trófica. Por último, las semillas de S. tenuifolia se ven directamente afectadas por los insectos que se alimentan de semillas, que les impide la germinación, lo que podría resultar en un efecto negativo en la población planta-hospedero.

Morphological and micromorphological characteristics of Desmodium fruits (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae)

The genus Desmodium is represented in Santa Catarina State, Brazil, by 13 species, all with lomentaceous fruits. Shape, size and isthmus margin of loments vary, while the surface is glabrous, or covered by trichomes of different types. Morphological diversity of trichomes becomes particularly relevant to taxonomic description. The trichome types present on the surface of Desmodium fruits provide data for the identification and classification of species in the State. To assess this, three fruits of each species were collected and deposited at two herbaria, HBR and FLOR, in Santa Catarina, Brazil. Some rehydrated samples were examined using light microscopy (LM); and some sections were exposed to the following histochemical reagents: Sudan III for oils and Thionine for mucilage. The structural aspects of trichomes can be classified into uni- or multicel- lular and may still be simple, i.e., nonglandular or glandular. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), five types of trichomes were identified and analyzed among the Desmodium species studied: uncinate, uniseriate, globose multicellular, globose unicellular and subulate. Characteristics, such as loment margin and article form, glabrescent or pillous indument, trichome type, with or without papillous epidermal cells and epicuticular striations, showed relevant diagnostic value. An identification key was developed for Desmodium species from Santa Catarina State, Brazil, based on macro and micromorphological characters of the fruit.

Características morfológicas y micromorfológicos de frutos Desmodium (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae). El género Desmodium está representado en Santa Catarina, Brasil, por 13 especies, todas con frutos lomentaceos. Los lomentos han tenido variación en forma, tamaño y características del margen del istmo, y la superficie es glabra o cubierta por tricomas de diferentes tipos. La diversidad morfológica de los tricomas se vuelve particularmente relevante para la descripción taxonómica. Los tipos de tri- comas presentes en la superficie de los frutos Desmodium, proporcionan datos para la identificación y clasificación de las especies en el Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Tres frutos de cada especie fueron recogidos y depositados en el Herbario (HBR y FLOR, Santa Catarina, Brasil). Algu- nas muestras fueron rehidratadas y examinadas usando microscopía de luz (LM), las secciones fueron expuestas a los siguientes reactivos histoquímicos: Sudan III para los aceites y Tionina para mucílago. Los aspectos estructurales de los tricomas se pueden clasificar en uni o multicelulares y pueden todavía ser simples, es decir, no glandular o glandular. Por medio del uso de la microscopía elec- trónica de barrido (SEM), cinco tipos de tricomas se han identificado y analizado entre las especies de Desmodium estudiadas: uncinado, uniseriado, globoso multicelular, globoso unicelular y subulado. Características como el margen del lomento y la forma del artículo, indumento glabrescente o piloso, tipo de tricomas con o sin células epidérmicas papilosas, y estrías epicuticulares mostraron valor de diagnóstico relevante. La clave de identificación fue desarrollada para especies de Desmodium del Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, basado en caracteres macro y micromorfológicos del fruto.

Morphology and genetics of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (Fabaceae) tree from Salta (Northwestern Argentina) / Morfología y genética del árbol Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (Fabaceae) en Salta (noroeste de Argentina)

Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil is an important tree species for its cultural, economic, and medicinal uses in South America. In order to characterize A. colubrina populations, we collected fruits from four different sites (San Bernardo, El Cebilar, Metán and El Gallinato) within the species distribution area in Salta Province, Northwestern Argentina. For this, a total of 75 fruits and seeds per site were collected and described using morphological (fruits size and weight; seed weight and number per fruit) and genetic descriptors (ribo-somic DNA extraction and PCR; nucleotide alignment and phylogenetic analysis) with standard protocols. Our results showed that the San Bernardo population had the heaviest fruits and seeds (7.89±0.2g and 0.19±0.002, respectively), and the Cebilar population the lightest (6.25±0.18g and 0.15±0.002g, respectively). Fruits and seeds from Metán and El Gallinato showed similar and intermediate values. The proportion viable (39 to 55%) and aborted (43 to 57%) seeds was different, while the proportion of predated (1.7 to 4.2%) seeds was similar among populations. The genetic analysis showed variability of ITS sequences within the especies, and also when compared with the same Brazilian species. Both, morphologic and genetic descriptors showed a high level of similarity between San Bernardo and Metán, and between El Cebilar and El Gallinato populations. Further studies are needed to assess levels of phenotypic and genetic variability within and between populations of different plant species, since this information is crucial for biodiversity and germplasm long-term conservation.

Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil es una especie arbórea de importancia cultural, económica y medicinal en Sur América. Para estudiar las poblaciones de A. colubrina, recolectamos frutos de cuatro sitios diferentes dentro del área de distribución de la especie en la provincia de Salta (Noroeste de Argentina) y se caracterizaron con base en descriptores morfológicos (tamaño de frutos, semillas y peso y número de semillas por fruto) y genéticos (ADN ribosómico). La población de San Bernardo presentó los frutos y semillas más pesados y la de El Cebilar los más livianos. Los frutos y semillas de Metán y El Gallinato fueron similares e intermedios. La proporción de semillas viables y abortadas fue similar en todas las poblaciones, mientras que la de semillas depredadas fue diferente. El análisis genético mostró variabilidad de las secuencias ITS dentro de la especie y también en comparación con la misma especie de Brasil. Los descriptores morfológicos y genéticos mostraron un mayor nivel de similitud entre las poblaciones de San Bernardo y Metán y entre El Cebilar y El Gallinato. Se necesitan más estudios para evaluar los niveles de variabilidad fenotípica y genética dentro y entre poblaciones de diferentes especies de plantas, ya que esta información es fundamental para la conservación de la biodiversidad y del germoplasma a largo plazo.

Ecological interpretations of the leaf anatomy of amphibious species of Aeschynomene L. (Leguminosae - Papilionoideae) / Interpretações ecológicas da anatomia foliar de espécies anfíbias de Aeschynomene L. (Leguminosae - Papilionoideae)

We present the leaf anatomy of seven amphibious species of Aeschynomene L. (Papilionoideae, Leguminosae), interpreting their structures and ecological functions, and also, providing information on which their taxonomy can be based, especially of morphologically similar species. We evaluated Aeschynomene americana, A. ciliata, A. evenia, A. denticulata, A. fluminensis, A. rudis and A. sensitiva. The anatomy corroborates the separation of the series Americanae, Fluminenses, Indicae and Sensitivae, with the shape of the petiole, types of trichomes and quantity of vascular units in the petiole as main characteristics to delimit the species. The petiole shape varies from cylindric in A. americana, A. sensitiva and A. fluminensis, to triangular in A. evenia and quadrangular in A. rudis, A. denticulata and A. ciliata. We observed four types of trichomes: hydathode trichome, long conic trichome, short conic trichome and bulb-based trichome. The hydathode trichome was the most common, except for A. americana and A. fluminensis. Species with higher affinity with water share similar adaptive characteristics, including hydathode trichomes described for the first time for the genus. This article adds unseen descriptions for the genus and on the adaptation factors of the amphibious species.

Neste trabalho é apresentada a anatomia foliar de sete espécies anfíbias de Aeschynomene L., interpretando estruturas e suas funções ecológicas e fornecendo informações que subsidiam sua taxonomia, principalmente de espécies semelhantes morfologicamente. Foram avaliadas Aeschynomene americana, A. ciliata, A. evenia, A. denticulata, A. fluminensis, A. rudis e A. sensitiva, pertencentes ao grupo Papilionoideae - Leguminosae. A anatomia corrobora a separação das séries Americanae, Fluminenses, Indicae e Sensitivae, sendo o formato do pecíolo, tipos dos tricomas e quantidade de unidades vasculares no pecíolo as principais características para delimitação das espécies de Aeschynomene. O formato do pecíolo variou de cilíndrico para A. americana, A. sensitiva e A. fluminensis, triangular para A. evenia e quadrangular para A. rudis, A. denticulata e A. ciliata. Foram observados quatro tipos de tricomas, são eles: tricoma-hidatódio, tricoma cônico longo, tricoma de base bulbosa e cônico curto. O tricoma-hidatódio foi o mais comum, ausente somente em A. americana e A. fluminensis. Espécies com maior afinidade pela água compartilham características adaptativas similares, incluindo tricoma-hidatódio descrito pela primeira vez para o gênero. Este trabalho acrescenta descrições inéditas para o gênero e sobre fatores adaptativos das espécies anfíbias.

Avaliação morfológica de plantas jovens de Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. desenvolvidas em diferentes temperaturas / Morphlogical evaluation of Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. saplings grown in different temperatures

O principal objetivo da pesquisa foi a avaliação de aspectos da anatomia foliar, da morfologia dos órgãos vegetativos, bem como a produção de biomassa em plantas jovens de Copaifera langsdorffii desenvolvidas sob diferentes temperaturas. Foram coletadas sementes e colocadas para germinar em câmara BOD a 30ºC. Após trinta dias as plântulas, com o primeiro par de folhas completamente expandidas, foram transplantadas para copos contendo plantimax®, e aclimatizadas durante quinze dias em casa de vegetação, quando foram transferidas para BODs com temperaturas T1-15ºC, T2-25ºC, T3-35ºC, e a testemunha (T) que permaneceu em casa de vegetação (29ºC). O experimento foi conduzido por um período de 120 dias. Foram observadas diferenças significativas no tamanho e frequência dos estômatos, nas dimensões das cavidades secretoras de óleo, na espessura do mesofilo, nos aspectos morfológicos externos, e na produção de biomassa. A produção de mudas sob temperatura de 25ºC foi apropriada, sendo a condição onde as plantas tornaram-se mais vigorosas, com morfologia mais uniforme nos órgãos vegetativos e houve maior produção de biomassa seca.

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate aspects of leaf anatomy, morphology of vegetative organs and biomass production in Copaifera langsdorffii saplings developed under heat shock treatment. Seeds were collected and germinated in BOD chamber at 30 ºC. After thirty days, the seedlings with the first pair of fully expanded leaves were transplanted into cups containing Plantimax®, acclimatized for two weeks in a greenhouse and transferred to growth chamber with the temperatures T1-15 ºC, T2-25 ºC, T3- 35 ºC, and the control (T) remained in a greenhouse (29 ºC). The experiment was conducted over a period of 120 days. Significant differences were observed in size and frequency of stomata, size of the oil secretory cavities, thickness of the mesophyll in the external morphology and biomass production. The production of seedlings at 25 ºC is suitable, a condition in which the plants become more vigorous with a more uniform morphology in the vegetative organs and higher production of biomass.

Caracterização e descrição da estrutura anatômica do lenho de seis espécies arbóreas com potencial medicinal / Characterization and description of wood anatomical structure in six tree species with medicinal potential

A caracterização morfoanatômica e a correta identificação das plantas medicinais são fundamentais para o controle de qualidade dos fitoterápicos. No presente trabalho é caracterizada a anatomia do lenho visando à identificação de seis espécies arbóreas com potencial medicinal. As amostras do lenho foram extraídas por método não destrutivo do tronco das árvores das espécies desenvolvidas em áreas de preservação. Em laboratório as amostras do lenho foram processadas para análises microscópicas do lenho, aplicando as metodologias para estudos de anatomia. Os resultados mostraram que o parênquima axial foi o parâmetro anatômico mais efetivo para a distinção das espécies através da análise do seu lenho. No trabalho discute-se a importância da aplicação da anatomia do lenho como ferramenta na identificação de espécies arbóreas medicinais.

The morphoanatomical characterization and the correct identification of medicinal plants are fundamental for the quality control of phytotherapics. In the present work, wood anatomy was characterized in order to identify six tree species with medicinal potential. Wood samples were collected through a non-destructive method from the trunk of trees developed in conservation areas. In the laboratory, wood samples were processed for microscopic analysis by applying the methods for anatomical studies. Axial parenchyma was the most effective anatomical parameter to distinguish species through wood analysis. In this work, the importance of wood anatomy as a tool for the identification of medicinal tree species was discussed.

Comparison of dietary fiber values between two varieties of cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata L. WALP) of Venezuela, using chemical and enzymatic gravimetric methods / Comparación de valores de fibra dietética en dos variedades de Cowpea(Vigna Unguiculata L. WALP) de Venezuela, usando métodos químicos y enzimáticos gravimétricos

Two varieties of uncooked beans Vigna unguiculata ("Unare"and "Tuy") analyzed by proximate analysis showed values of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and ash very similar between the varieties of "Unary" and "Tuy". The chemical-gravimetric method to quantify the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) showed the highest value for the variety "Tuy" (35.3 percent) compared to "Unary" (27.1 percent). The enzymatic-gravimetric method Hellendoorn showed that the values of non-carbohydrate available for the varieties "Tuy" (15.5 percent) and "Unare" (21.7 percent) were lower than those from the NDF method. The enzymatic-gravimetric method of Prosky, showed that the variety "Tuy" had values of insoluble dietary fiber(IDF) (15.4 percent) and total dietary fiber (SDF + IDF) (16.1 percent) higher than the variety "Unare." In conclusion, Prosky's method seems to be the most suitable for quantifying DF in the analyzed samples. More research is needed to clarify the validity of the quantification of DF.

Dos variedades de fríjol crudo Vigna unguiculata ("Unare" y "Tuy") analizadas mediante un análisis proximal mostró valores de proteínas, grasas, hidratos de carbono y cenizas muy similares entre las variedades "Unare" y "Tuy". El método químico-gravimétrico para cuantificar la fibra detergente neutro (FDN) produjo el mayor valor para la variedad "Tuy" (35,3 por ciento) en relación a "Unare" (27,1 por ciento). El método enzimático-gravimétrico Hellendoorn mostró que los valores de hidratos de carbono no-disponibles de las variedades "Tuy" (15,5 por ciento) y "Unare", (21,7 por ciento) eran menores a los obtenidos con el método FDN. El método enzimático-gravimétrico Prosky arrojó valores de fibra dietética insoluble (FDI) (15,4 por ciento) y fibra dietética total (16,1 por ciento) de la variedad "Tuy" superiores a la variedad "Unare". En conclusión el método de Prosky parece ser el más indicado en la cuantificación de DF de estas muestras. Mayor información es requerida para poder precisar la validez de la cuantificación de DF.

Influence of leaflet age in anatomy and possible adaptive values of the midrib gall of Copaifera langsdorffii (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae)

Gall inducing insects most frequently oviposit in young tissues because these tissues have higher metabolism and potential for differentiation. However, these insects may also successfully establish in mature tissues as was observed in the super-host Copaifera langsdorffii. Among C. langsdorffii gall morphotypes, one of the most common is a midrib gall induced by an undescribed species of Cecidomyiidae. Following this ‘host plant and gall-inducing insect’ model, we addressed two questions: 1) Do the age of the tissues alter the gall extended phenotype? 2) Do gall morphological and anatomical features influence the adaptive value of the galling insect? For anatomical and histometrical studies, transverse sections of young and mature, galled and ungalled samples were prepared. Galls in young leaflets presented higher potential for cell division and greater nutritive reserves, whereas galls in mature leaflets perhaps provide more protection against natural predators and desiccation. Host organ age at the time of oviposition may influence plant cell fates and consequently the interpretation of the adaptive value of insect galls. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (1-2): 293-302. Epub 2009 June 30.

Wood anatomy of tribe Detarieae and comparison with tribe Caesalpinieae (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae) in Venezuela

We studied the wood anatomy of 29 species belonging to 10 genera of the tribe Detarieae, subfamily Caesalpinioideae and compare them with tribe Caesalpinieae. Detarieae is the largest of four tribes of Caesalpinioideae, with 84 genera, only eleven occur in Venezuela with species of timber importance. The specimens were collected in Venezuela and include wood samples from the collection of the Laboratorio de Anatomía de Maderas de la Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales de la Universidad de Los Andes, Venezuela, and of the Forest Products Laboratory of the USDA Forest Service in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. The terminology and methodology used followed the IAWA List of Microscopic Features for Hardwood identification of the IAWA Committee, 1989. Measurements from each specimen were averaged (vessel diameters, vessel element lengths, intervessels pit size, fibre lengths and ray height). The species of Detarieae can be separated using a combination of diagnostic features. Wood characters that provide the most important diagnosis and may be used in systematics of Detarieae include: intercellular axial canals, rays heterocellular, rays exclusively or predominantly uniseriate, prismatic crystals common in ray cells, irregular storied structure and fibre wall thickness. For comparative anatomy between Detarieae and Caesalpinieae: intercellular axial canals, heterocellular rays, rays exclusively or predominantly uniseriate, prismatic crystals common in ray cells (in Detarieae) and regular storied structure, fibres septate, fibre wall thick or very thick, rays homocellular, multiseriate rays and silica bodies (in Caesalpinieae). Axial parenchyma is typically a good diagnostic feature for Leguminosae, but not for Detarieae and Caesalpinieae comparisons. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (1-2): 303-319. Epub 2009 June 30.

Se estudió la anatomía de la madera de 29 especies de 10 géneros de la tribu Detarieae, subfamilia Caesalpinioideae, enfocado hacia la identificación de la estructura de la madera y su comparación con la tribu Caesalpinieae. Los especímenes fueron recolectados en Venezuela y pertenecen a la colecciones de maderas del Laboratorio de Anatomía de Maderas de la Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales de la Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela y del USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, Wisconsin, USA. Las características anatómicas evaluadas siguen lo propuesto por IAWA List of Microscopic Features for Hardwood identification (IAWA Committee 1989). Las especies de la tribu Detarieae pueden ser identificadas usando un número de características de diagnóstico combinadas: canales intercelulares longitudinales, radios heterocelulares exclusiva o predominantemente uniseriados, patrones del parénquima axial, cristales prismáticos en las células radiales, estructura estratificada y grosor de las paredes de las fibras. Estos caracteres también proporcionan una valiosa información para estudios sistemáticos y filogenéticos. Se presenta la descripción anatómica a nivel de género, una tabla sinóptica con los caracteres de diagnóstico principales y fotomicrografías de las características más importantes.

Anatomy and ontogeny of the pericarp of Pterodon emarginatus Vogel (Fabaceae, Faboideae), with emphasis on secretory ducts

Discrepant and incomplete interpretations of fruits of Pterodon have been published, especially on the structural interpretation of the pericarp portion that remain attached to the seed upon dispersal. The present work clarified these doubts and analyzed ultrastructural aspects of the Pterodon emarginatus diaspores using light and transmission electron microscopes. Cell divisions are prevalent among the initial phases of development, and the subadaxial and adaxial meristems form the fibrous inner mesocarp and the endocarp composed of multi-seriate epidermis, respectively. At the median mesocarp, numerous secretory ducts differentiate between the lateral bundles, by lytic process. After lysis of the central cells and the formation of the lumen, the ducts show unistratified secretory epithelium with dense cells; oil droplets are observed on the secretory epithelium and the subadjacent tissues. At maturity, the uniseriate exocarp and the outer mesocarp slough off in an irregular fashion, leaving the diaspore composed of a papery and brittle wing linked to a seed chamber that includes the median mesocarp composed of lignified cells, bordering vascular bundles and many secretory ducts whose epithelial cells develop large vacuoles that accumulate oleoresins. The Pterodon emarginatus fruit is a cryptosamara.

Interpretações discrepantes e incompletas têm sido conferidas ao fruto de Pterodon, especialmente no que tange à determinação estrutural da porção pericárpica que acompanha a semente na dispersão. Assim, com o objetivo de dirimir tais dúvidas e analisar a organização ultra-estrutural das estruturas secretoras presentes no diásporo de Pterodon emarginatus, realizaram-se estudos convencionais aos microscópios de luz e eletrônico de transmissão. Nas fases iniciais de desenvolvimento do fruto, prevalecem divisões celulares; pela ação do meristema subadaxial e do adaxial, formam-se, respectivamente, o mesocarpo interno fibroso e o endocarpo composto por epiderme multisseriada. No mesocarpo mediano, entre os feixes vasculares laterais, diferenciam-se numerosos ductos secretores lisígenos. Após a lise das células centrais e formação do lume, os ductos apresentam epitélio secretor uniestratificado, com células densas; gotas de óleo são observadas no epitélio secretor e tecido subjacente. Na maturidade, o exocarpo unisseriado e o mesocarpo externo, ambos fenólicos, descamam irregularmente, sendo o diásporo constituído pela ala papirácea e quebradiça, ligada ao núcleo seminífero que abrange o mesocarpo mediano de células lignificadas, margeando feixes vasculares e muitos ductos secretores, que apresentam acúmulo de oleorresina e cujas células epiteliais tornam-se vacuoladas. O fruto de Pterodon emarginatus é, portanto, uma criptossâmara.

Morfología de la semilla y anatomía de la cubierta seminal de cinco especies de Calliandra (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) de Venezuela

Seed morphology and anatomy of the seed coat in five species of Calliandra (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) from Venezuela. Calliandra is an exclusively Neotropoical genus with 135 described species. There are 30 species in Venezuela. We studied seed morphology and the seed coat anatomy of five species: Calliandra riparia Pittier, Calliandra glomerulata Karsten var. glomerulata, Calliandra magdalenae (DC.) Benth. var. magdalenae, Calliandra surinamensis Benth. and Calliandra falcata Benth., to establish simililarities and differences amongst taxa for taxonomic characterization. Of the evaluated characters, 10 quantitative characters and 3 qualitative characters were selected as the most informative for the separation of species. Seed morphological characters of taxonomic value are form and size. Thickness of the light line, number of layers and space between the osteosclereids constitute distinctive characters. Rev. Biol. Trop. 56 (3): 1075-1086. Epub 2008 September 30.

Se estudió la morfología de las semillas y la anatomía de la cubierta seminal en cinco especies venezolanas del género Calliandra, con la finalidad de establecer similitudes y diferencias entre estos taxa, para su utilización como criterio taxonómico. Se analizaron caracteres morfológicos de valor taxonómico; entre ellos la forma y el tamaño de la semilla, así como anatómicos tales como espesor de las diferentes regiones, la ubicación de la línea lúcida y el tamaño relativo de los espacios intercelulares en la hipodermis. Con los resultados se realizaron análisis de agrupamiento por medio de la función de análisis discriminante. Diez caracteres cuantitativos, y tres caracteres cualitativos, resultaron informativos para la separación de especies.

Butea frondosa [flame of the forest] A review

Butea frondosa [Syn. Butea monosperma] is an important gum yielding tree and commonly known as Butea kino or Bengal kino. B. frondosa is a multipurpose herb and is frequently employed in number of medicinal preparations for the powerful astringent action of the gum. It is given internally for dysentery and diarrhoea. It is also used as diuretic, aphrodisiac and for the treatment of herpes, skin ulcers and in piles. Due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory action it has recently been employed in a number of cosmetic formulations. This article deals with the pharmacognostic, clinical and therapeutic significance of B. frondosa

Estructura de una población del árbol Peltogyne purpurea (Cesalpinaceae) en un bosque intervenido de la Península de Osa, Costa Rica / Population structure of the tree Peltogyne purpurea (Cesalpinaceae) in an altered forest at Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

The regeneration of the rain forest tree Peltogyne purpururea Pittier after selective logging was studied in Mogos, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. The distribution of all adult trees of P. purpurea according to diameter at breath height (dbh) categories revealed that the distribution of the adult trees followed a bell-shaped curve. The largest number of individuals was found in the 70 to 80 cm dbh category. We did not find any significant differences in the distribution of saplings around seed-producing trees. There were similar numbers of saplings in the four transects established around each reproductive tree following the four cardinal directions. Overall, the majority of the saplings were found in the first meters around each seed-producing tree. There was another peak in the number of saplings at the distance where the crown of the tree ended. Logging can negatively affect the regeneration of P. purpurea.

Se estudió la regeneración de una población del árbol Peltogyne purpurea Pittier después de una corta selectiva de madera en el bosque lluvioso tropical de Mogos, Península de Osa, Costa Rica. La distribución de los árboles adultos de P. purpurea según el diámetro del tallo a la altura del pecho tiene forma de campana. La categoría con la mayor cantidad de individuos correspondió a los árboles con tallos con diámetros entre 70 y 80 cm. No hubo diferencia significativa en el número de brinzales encontrados en los transectos establecidos siguiendo los cuatro puntos cardinales alrededor de los árboles reproductivos (madre). En general, la mayoría de los brinzales se encontraban en los primeros metros alrededor del árbol madre. Se observó otro pico de abundancia de brinzales a la distancia correspondiente con el final de la copa del árbol. La extracción de madera puede tener un efecto negativo en la regeneración de P. purpurea.

Anatomy and ontogeny of Pterodon emarginatus (Fabaceae: Faboideae) seed

O presente trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de descrever a estrutura da semente de Pterodon emarginatus, nas várias fases do desenvolvimento, utilizando técnicas usuais. Verificou-se que os óvulos são campilótropos, crassinucelados e bitegumentados. Durante o desenvolvimento tegumentar ocorrem os seguintes processos: divisões anticlinais e acúmulo de compostos fenólicos na exotesta, cujas células tornam-se paliçádicas; divisões predominantemente periclinais e alongamento na mesotesta, onde se diferencia o feixe rafeal; diferenciação, adjacente à paliçada, da camada de células em ampulheta; coalescimento do tégmen junto à testa, culminando no concrescimento dos dois tegumentos, que se mantêm individualizados apenas na região micropilar; intensa impregnação de compostos pécticos nas paredes espessadas da mesotesta, com lignificação restrita ao xilema. Na região hilar, desenvolve-se a estrutura característica das sementes de Faboideae, com dupla camada paliçádica, parênquima subhilar e barra de traqueídes. O nucelo é consumido durante a formação da semente, observando-se, na estrutura jovem, células de paredes pécticas espessadas. O endosperma é nuclear e, após a celularização, exibe perifericamente células de conteúdo denso; é encontrado na semente madura, embora se apresente reduzido, acumulando substâncias lipídicas. O embrião é axial, com cotilédones crassos, que acumulam reservas de natureza lipídica e protéica, sendo raros os grãos de amido. Embora a estrutura observada seja típica das Fabaceae, não há reabsorção do tegumento interno, mas concrescimento ao externo.