Papers in the Biological Sciences
Date of this Version
3-1968
Citation
Phytomorphology (March 1968) 18(1): 13-35.
Abstract
The vascular anatomy of 13 of the 15 genera of the Hydrocharitaceae has been studied, and certain aspects of floral morphology are considered. The flowers of the family show a broad range of specialized structures combined with primitive characteristics. The origin of paired and single stamens is interpreted as probable modifications of fascicled stamens. Extreme reduction in the androecium is shown for several genera. Tendencies toward reduction and fusion within the gynoecium are pronounced. Most genera are at least slightly syncarpous, but a few are apocarpous. The inferior ovary is appendicular in nature, with some genera exhibiting more complete fusion than others. The carpels are open and show no signs of closure. The multicarpellate genera have the most primitive gynoecia within the family while the tricarpellate genera exhibit the most advanced types in the family. Intermediate forms are Blyxa and Vallisneria.
Comments
Copyright 1968, International Society of Plant Morphologists. Used by permission.