HISTO-ANATOMY OF SCHLUMBERGERA TRUNCATA

(HAW.) MORAN

Rodica Bercu

KEY WORDS: water storage tissue, cacti, root, cladophyll, Schlumbergera truncata

ABSTRACT

                The anatomical structure of this plant justify it succulent nature, especially the water storage parenchyma, covering the major portion of the stem. The root of these species is well developed, possessing a secondary structure which gives it strength. The stem (cladophylls) mechanical tissue is absent. Remarkable is the presence of siliceous crystals and starch grains in the stem cortical cells The cortex covers the major portion of the stem. It is differentiated into a chlorenchymatic and a water storage tissue. The vascular system of the stele is poorly developed represented by a number of collateral vascular bundles in an eustele arrangement.