The position of Najas within the subclass Alismatidae (Monocotyledones) in the light of new evidence from seed coat structures in the Hydrocharitoideae (Hydrocharitales)

SHAFFER-FEHRE, M., 1991. The position of Najas within the Alismatidae (Monocotyledones) in the light of new evidence from seed coat structures in the Hydrocharitoideae (Hydrocharitaceae). This paper gives details of seed coat structure in several genera of the Hydrocharitoideae (Hydrocharitaceae) and of Najas (Najadaceae). The taxonomic position of Najas L., as a genus or as the basis of a higher taxonomic category, has changed with the publication of every new system of classification in which it was considered. In the light of evidence derived from seed coat anatomy, particularly that of the testa, and from the presence of endotegmen tuberculae, Najas is placed in the enlarged tribe Stratioteae in the subfamily Hydrocharitoideae (Hydrocharitaceae).     

Development and structure of the seed of Ozoroa paniculosa (Anacardiaceae) and taxonomic notes

The anatropous, bitegmic and crassinucellar ovule has a nuclear endosperm development. It is further characterized by a hypostase sensu lato. This hypostase being an integral part of the chalaza undergoes a secondary extension with it. At maturity the exalbuminous seed is partially pachychalazal and therefore two anatomically distinct larger parts can be distinguished in the mature seed coat. An endotegmen typifies the integumentary seed coat, while a saddle-shaped hypostase characterizes the chalazal seed coat. This seed coat shows several characteristics of the typical anacardiaceous pachychalazal seed. The cotyledons store lipids and protein as nutrient reserveS. A well-developed cuticle, cuticular layer, cutin and callose in the hypostase cell walls, as well as tannin-like deposits in the seed coat, protect the physiologically ripe seed against dehydration.