A SEM study of leaf trichomes in Heliotropiaceae

Leaf trichomes are essential for plant physiology, defense mechanisms, and ecological interactions. In this research, we used scanning electron microscopy to examine the leaf trichomes of 11 species in the family Heliotropiaceae, including the representative species of the genera Euploca, Heliotropium, Ixorhea, and Myriopus. Six species from Heliotropium, three from Euploca, one from Ixorhea, and one from Myriopus were examined. Our detailed results revealed various trichome types, both glandular and non-glandular, across the studied species. The results demonstrated differences in trichome morphology, density, and distribution within and across the genera. The distribution of trichomes on the leaf surface of some species is dense and sparse in others. Also, leaf trichomes vary in size and both short and long types of trichomes were observed in some species. Most trichomes have decorations on their surface and variation can be seen in their shape. Furthermore, the distribution maps of the studied species were obtained and inferred with the trichome type. This study enhances our understanding of the anatomical diversity and ecological importance of leaf trichomes in the family, providing a basis for future studies in plant biology and ecology. Furthermore, the findings underscore trichomes' diversity and potential applications in taxonomic treatments.

A SEM study of leaf trichomes in Heliotropiaceae Keywords:

Boraginales , Heliotropiaceae , micromorphology , SEM , trichome