Anatomical studies on the seeds of Alternanthera sessilis Linn

Abstract

Alternanthera sessilis Linn belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is an annual or a perennial prostate herb with several spreading branches bearing short petioles, simple leaves and small white flowers. The branches are raised from the root and are up to 50 cm long. The seed is used in Siddha system of medicine. So far no Anatomical characters have been reported on the seeds of Alternanthera sessilis Linn. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Macroscopic and microscopic characters of the fresh seed samples of Alternanthera sessilis Linn. The seed samples were mounted on FAA solution. Sections were taken in rotary microtome, stained with toluidine blue characters, histochemical tests were observed. The seed is 400 μm long and 250 μm wide, Seed coat ( Testa) is 10μm thick and hard. Both outer and inner seed coats are sclerotic with prominent appendages on the outer surface of the seed coat. Endosperm is large, thin walled and polyhedral. Anatomical characters reported on the seeds of Alternanthera sessilis Linn can be used as a diagnostic tool for the botanical identity and authentication of the correct plant material.