Env Exp Biol (2011) 9: 105–113

Morphological and micromorphological characterization of some legume seeds from Gujarat, India

Abstract

Light and scanning electron microscopical studies on seed morphological and micromorphological features of 17 legume species belonging to three genera (Crotolaria, Alysicarpus and Indigofera), of Faboideae, Fabaceae were examined and described. Seed characteristics, particularly exomorphic features, that are revealed through scanning electron microscopy can be used in resolving problems of systematics of species. Mature seeds of Crotolaria differ from those of Alysicarpus and Indigofera by its prominent kidney shape. Seeds of Alysicarpus and Indigofera are biconvex and shape varies from rectangular spherical oblong to ovoid. However, within the genera, the species differ in size, surface and hilum characteristics. The study showed that the seed coat ornamentation/spermoderm pattern can be helpful in identification of species.