The generic position of Lithraea brasiliensis Marchand (Anacardiaceae): evidence from fruit and seed structure

In Lithraea brasiliensis Marchand the exocarp is characterized by brachysclereids and the parenchymatous mesocarp by large secretory ducts; inner sclerenchymatous ridges are absent in die mesocarp. The stratified endocarp s. s. comprises a crystal layer, palisade-like brachysclereids, osteosclereids and macrosclereids. The osteosclereids are characterized by a distinct light line or linea lucida , which has hitherto also been recorded in a species of Rhus. In the partially pachychalazal seed, a typical Anacardiaceae-like hypostase typifies the chalazal part of the seed coat, while the integumentary seed coat reveals a well preserved outer epidermis, a compressed endotegmen and well developed inner cuticular layer. Our comparison of die characters of the ovule, fruit and seed of L. brasiliensis with those of various species of Rhus and other genera of the tribe Rhoeae (some closely related) presents evidence that L. brasiliensis could be most closely associated with the genus Rhus.     

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.