Generic Identification Key to Rattan Palms Based on Stem Anatomical Characters

Abstract

The rattan palms consist of 13 genera which present distinct anatomical differences. Of special significance are the number of phloem fields and vessels per vascular bundie, type of ground parenchyma, occurrence of fibre rows in the cortex, 'yellow cap', raphide sacs, arrangement of sieve tubes and size of the fibre sheath of the outer vascular bundles. On the basis of these features a dichotomous key for the identification of the rattan genera has been developed. Since the technological properties of the c. 650 species differ considerably, this means of identification at least at the generic level is of practical value.