Comparative leaf anatomy of two species of <i>Ipomoea</i> L. (Convolvulaceae): taxonomic importance and adaptations to xeric conditions of the cangas.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Accurate species identification is the first step towards establishing conservation strategies, especially regarding rare and threatened species, such as those studied here. Moreover, understanding the responses to the environment and growing conditions of endemic species is necessary for its conservation. This study compares the leaf anatomy of Ipomoea cavalcantei and I. marabaensis, which grow on the Brazilian ironstone outcrops (cangas) and exhibit morphological convergence.

Methods

Leaf anatomical characters of the species were described. Additionally, the leaf adaptive potential of I. cavalcantei was evaluated, comparing individuals grown in natural canga areas (in situ) and cultivated in topsoil (ex situ). Quantitative anal

SUBMITTER: Silva JCR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11639869 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature