Issue Date
2024
Abstract
This study examines the variation and abundance of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals in Amorphophallus longispathaceus Engl. & Gehrm., a species of economic interest known for its acridity due to CaOx crystals. These crystals play key roles in defense and calcium regulation. The study quantifies the abundance, morphology, and length-to-width ratio of raphide bundles across different tissues. Samples from five individuals were analyzed microscopically, revealing diverse CaOx crystal forms, including raphides, styloids, druses, and atypical structures in the lamina, petiole, and corm. Raphide bundles were most abundant in the corm, followed by the lamina and petiole, with significant differences in distribution among plant parts. The corm contained shorter, thicker raphide bundles, whereas the lamina featured longer, thinner ones. Findings suggest that the high CaOx concentration in the corm functions as both a defense mechanism and a calcium storage system. The presence of raphide bundles along leaf margins and vascular tissues underscores their role in plant defense and structural support. This study highlights species- specific variation in CaOx crystal abundance, emphasizing their adaptive significance in response to physiological and environmental factors.
Source or Periodical Title
UP Los Baños Journal
Volume
22
Issue
3
Page
33-51
Document Type
Article
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Sumabat, Phil Anthony B.; Arzaga, Jaybie S.; and Bautista, Nonnatus S., "Comparative analysis of calcium oxalate abundance and variation across parts and subparts of Amorphophallus longispathaceus Engl. & Gehrm. (araceae)" (2024). Journal Article. 6310.
https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/journal-articles/6310