Xerophytic characteristics of Tectona philippinensis Benth. & Hook. f.

Abstract

© 2016, Science and Technology Information Institute. All rights reserved. Tectona philippinensis Benth. & Hook.f. is one of only three species in the genus Tectona (Lamiaceae) restricted to the Asian tropics. It is endemic to Ilin Island and Batangas Province on Luzon Island, Philippines and is regarded as a critically endangered species. While role of xerophytic characteristics of plants are very important for their survival and growth under various environmental pressures, such characteristics in native tree species remain unclear. In this study, the anatomy of the species was analyzed to determine the xerophytic characteristics of T. philippinensis. Histological paraffin technique was used to examine the anatomical structures of leaf and young stem of the species. The anatomical structures of T. philippinensis have the characteristics typical of xerophytic plants. This includes the presence of four types of trichomes, extended and well-developed vascular system, and multiple layers of palisade and sclerenchyma cells. Extension of extended vascular bundles to both non-glandular hairs on the adaxial surface and glandular hairs on the abaxial surface of leaf is reported for the first time in this study. Therefore, anatomical structures of this species suggest its ability to survive under marginal conditions. However, studies on ecophysiology, pot experiments/field trials, phenology, and associated vegetation of the species are suggested to further understand its habitat preference and adaptation mechanisms.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Journal of Science

ISSN

317683

Page

259-269

Document Type

Article

Subject

Anatomy, Arid or semi-arid, Endemic, Lamiaceae, Restoration, Xerophytes

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