Comparative root anatomy and root bud development in two species of Malvaceae

Abstract

Underground plant organs, usually the thickened ones, can be capable of producing buds that allow shoot regrowth when the aerial part of the plants is eliminated. Some plants have roots that produce buds, which may or may not be branched systems, but which allow vegetative propagation in unfavorable environments due the presence of carbohydrate reserves. This study aimed to analyze and compare the anatomy of the roots of two Brazilian species, Apeiba tibourbou and Pachira aquatica, that present starch grains, buds and the ability to propagate vegetatively. Material of both species was analyzed in loco, collected and compared through anatomical analysis using standardized methods. Tests for carbohydrate detection were also applied. Anatomical analyses showed that the roots produced endogenous buds, originating from pericycle cells in A. tibourbou and from parenchyma rays in P. aquatica. Both species presented starch as carbohydrate reserve. The results demonstrated not only the high potential of differentiation and specialization of plant cells, but also the diverse reproductive strategies adopted by these species of the family Malvaceae, whether they are associated with the environment or not.