Environ Exp Biol (2015) 13: 183–187

Comparative seed and leaf micromorphology of Colutea species (Fabaceae) from Iran

Abstract

Light and scanning electron microscopical studies were carried out on seed and leaf surface morphological and micromorphological features of seven legume species belonging to genus Colutea L. The different seed types were described, illustrated, compared and their taxonomic importance is discussed. Seed characteristics, particularly exomorphic features, which were shown by scanning electron microscopy, can be used to resolve problems of systematics of species. Considerable variability of seed coats morphology was observed and its implication for species taxonomy is discussed. Within the genus Colutea L., species showed different characteristics for seed size and surface, hilum as well as differences in leaf surface characteristics. The study revealed that seed coat ornamentation within the genus shows considerable variation and can be helpful for taxonomic purposes.