Leaf Anatomy of Morinda citrifolia L. in Pahang, Malaysia, and its Taxonomic Significance

Abstract

Leaf anatomical study has been conducted on Morinda citrifolia L. from family Rubiaceae in Kuantan, Pahang. The aim of this study was to identify and list characteristics of leaf anatomy that can be used to identify and classification of species and genus in the Rubiaceae family. Methods used in this study were cross section using sliding microtome, epidermis peeling and leaf clearing and observation under a light microscope. Results from this study showed few characteristics can be used in identification in species studied. The result of this study showed that the presence of collenchyma cells, sclerenchyma cells, cell inclusions such as raphide at the petiole and midrib and hypostomatic stomata can be useful as an additional data to identify species studied. In conclusion, leaf anatomy characteristics can be used as an additional characteristic in the identification and classification of selected Rubiaceae species.
Keywords: Leaf anatomy, Morinda citrifolia