Bio-Physicochemical Studies on Water Calyx Fluid in the African Tulip Tree, Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv.

Abstract

Background: Flowers of Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv. development is unique as inner whorls develop immersed in a fluid called water calyces. Purpose: The present study is an investigation into the biochemical composition and physicochemical properties of water calyx fluid from Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv. Methods: Fluid composition of small, medium and large stages of S. campanulata flower buds were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively for biomolecules viz., reducing sugars, total free amino acids, proteins, phenols and Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA). Physiochemical analyses were done using particle size analyzer. Results: Reducing sugars, total free amino acids, proteins and IAA were present in appreciable amounts whereas total phenol content was low and the content of biomolecules were significant between groups and within the groups. The water calyx fluid is highly stable and absolute necessity for the floral development. Conclusions: The concentrations of all the analyzed biomolecules were found to be decreasing with bud maturity. The contents of water calyx fluid is obligatory for the development of floral whorls.