Anatomical Findings of the Genus Galium L. (Rubiacaeae) in Egypt and Their Systematic Implications

Authors : Kadry N. Abdel-khalik, Monier M. Abd El-ghani, Ahmed A. Elkordy

Pages : 353-359

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Publication Date : 9999-12-31

Article Type : Makaleler

Abstract :Transverse stem sections of 11 species and 2 subspecies of the genus Galium L. from Egypt were studied by light microscopy. Epidermal cell shape, cortex, xylem, and pith were of good taxonomic value between the taxa. Four types of stem shape were discerned in the transverse sections. The shape of epidermal cells can be used to distinguish between subspecies of Galium setaceum Lam. The cortex varied in size from wide to very narrow. The pith was wide or narrow, and solid or hollow, and was useful for classifying species into groups. A key for the identification of the investigated taxa based on anatomical characters is provided.
Keywords : Anatomy, Galium, Rubiaceae, stem, transverse section