A study of the vasculatures of the mid-vein of some Nigerian Cucurbits

Abstract

A study of the vasculatures of the mid-vein of some members of Nigerian Cucurbitaceae was undertaken.  Ten species representing eight genera were studied and there is a considerable variation in the number and pattern of arrangement of the vascular bundles recorded in all the genera.

      The transactions of the mid-vein of the Cucurbit leaves are provided with three to seven bicollateral vascular bundles.  The vasculature recorded in Cucurbits differs from what obtained in other group of plants with digitate/palmate leaves where the mid-veins are usually provided with a single vascular bundle of different sizes and shapes.

      The taxonomic significance of the nature of the vasculature and the distribution of the vascular tissues in the mid-vein of the Cucurbits is discussed.