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(Reference retrieved automatically from SciELO through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Seed germination and seedling morphology of Smilax polyantha (Smilacaceae)

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Author(s):
Aline Redondo Martins [1] ; Norbert Pütz [2] ; Ana Dionisia da Luz Coelho Novembre [3] ; Sônia Maria de Stefano Piedade [4] ; Beatriz Appezzato da Glória [5]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Fac Tecnol Capao Bonito, BR-18300000 Capao Bonito, SP - Brazil
[2] University of Vechta - Alemanha
[3] USP, ESALQ, Dept Prod Vegetal, BR-13418900 Piracicaba, SP - Brazil
[4] Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz. Departamento de Ciências Exatas - Brasil
[5] Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz. Departamento de Ciências Biológicas - Brasil
Total Affiliations: 5
Document type: Journal article
Source: Biota Neotropica; v. 11, n. 2, p. 31-37, 2011-06-00.
Abstract

Brazilians have been using the underground organs of Smilax species in alternative medicine since the 19th century because of their anti-rheumatic qualities. However, even nowadays, these species are explored only by extractivism. Studies on seed germination and development of these organs could be useful to preserve these plants. After germination, seedling development of Smilax polyantha was analyzed to understand underground stem formation. Furthermore, to analyze the ontogenesis of the underground system, seedlings aged from one to twelve months were sectioned. One of the most striking features of this species is the presence of two stem branching systems. The plumule gives rise to the first stem branching system with negative geotropism. Its first underground axillary bud sprouted into the other caulinar axis with positive geotropism. The horizontal growth and the subsequent thickening of this underground organ depended on the development of axillary buds from basal nodes of the previous branches. The cotyledonary bud did not play a role in the underground formation, as previously described in the literature for this genus, but the buds of the basal cataphylls built the second stem branching system. In this study we discuss the terminology and suggest calling this second stem branching system a rhizophore. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 05/58964-9 - Morphoanatomy of the vegetative organs and chemical profile of species of the Smilax L. (Smilacaceae) genus
Grantee:Beatriz Appezzato da Glória
Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Regular Research Grants
FAPESP's process: 05/54984-5 - Morphoanatomy of the vegetative organs and chemical profile of species of Smilax L. (Smilacaceae) genus
Grantee:Aline Redondo Martins
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate