Morphology and distribution of epidermal phytoliths in Triticum aestivum L.

ABSTRACT

Opaline silica depositions (opal phytoliths) in epidermal cells of leaves of Triticum aestivum cv. Ofanto of different age and position are described. Phytoliths of different shape and size were isolated with a modified wet oxidation method. They have been classified according to the description given by other workers on Graminaceae. They are found only in the sheath and blade but not in the coleoptile. Their position is viewed in relation to leaf anatomy and to the degree of epidermal differentiation. The taxonomic significance of phytoliths is discussed.

KEY WORDS:

• Triticum
• Phytoliths
• Epidermis
• Coleoptile
• Leaf sheath
• Leaf blade