Abstract:
Deserts are generally prone to a number of ecological hazards which act as agents for the development of particularly a very diverse group of grasses, which can resist harsh conditions through multiple Morpho-anatomical adaptations. Shoot and root morphology, osmotic adjustment and stomatal characteristics are features related to stress adaptation. The present study was conducted to evaluate the Leaf Morpho-anatomical and photosynthetic traits in Some differentially Adapted Perennial Desert grasses native to harsh climates. Three ecotypes of each five desert grass species i.e., Cymbopogon jawarancusa, Panicum antidotale, Panicum turgidum, Sporobolus ioclados and Lasiurus scindicus were collected from three different Habitats of Cholistan desert i.e Cholistan Institute of Desert studies (CIDs) in the Islamia University of Bahawalpur that is less saline controlled habitat, Kaaley pahaar near Marot moderately saline and RD 65 in laal suhanra extremely saline. Results indicated that Ecotype three of P. antidotale has shown more reduced leaf area as compared to all the other four species. While an ecotype three of P. turgidum has shown more increased leaf area. Fresh weight and dry weight of L. scindicus was higher in an ecotype three while it was lower in an ecotype three of S. ioclados. In Anatomical characteristics Leaf thickness in ecotype two of all the grass species except L. scindicus was minimum. Adaxial epidermis thickness was minimum in an ecotype three of C. jawarancusa and P. antidotale. Abaxial epidermis thickness was maximum in an ecotype three of C. jawarancusa, S. ioclados and L. scindicus. Sclerenchyma thickness in ecotype three of C. jawarancusa, S. ioclados and L. scindicus was maximum. Vascular bundle density was maximum in an ecotype three of C. jawarancusa and P. turgidum. Vascular bundle area was reduced in ecotype three of all the five grass species except P. turgidum. Meta and protoxylem vessel area reduced in an ecotype three of C. jawarancusa, P. antidotale and P. turgidum. No stomata was found on the Adaxial epidermis of C. jawarancusa. Stomatal density increased in an ecotype three of all the five grass species except L. scindicus. Stomatal area decreased in an ecotype three of all the five grass species except S. ioclados. Leaf hair density has increased in an ecotype three of all the five grass species except L. scindicus. More adaptations were seen in an ecotype three of all the five grass species. Among all the grass species, S. ioclados and L. scindicus presented more adaptations. These potential plants may contribute significantly for the phytoremediation and reclamation of naturally and anthropogenically affected soils.
Page(s):
151-151
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on Global Science Technology and Management Conference, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023