Chin J Plan Ecolo ›› 1994, Vol. 18 ›› Issue (3): 219-227.

• Research Articles • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Morphological and Anatomical Features of Quercus Section Suber and its Adaptation to the Ecological Environment

He Jin-sheng, Chen Wei-lie, Wang Xun-ling   

  • Published:1994-03-10
  • Contact: Yi Wei-min

Abstract: The morphological and anatomical features of Quercus Section Suber, the dominant species of the sclerophyllous evergreen broad leaved-forest, from different habitats were compared The results show that Quercus Section Suber possesses dual morphological characteristics of non-succulent xerophyte and alpine plants. This is believed to be the basis for them to be adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions. The size and density of the stomata, the shape and pattern of the anticlinal walls of the epidermal cells, and the thickness of leaves and cuticles were modified to a large extent by the ecological environment. On the contrary, the types of stomatal apparatus and the two layers of the adaxial epidermal cells are stable characteristics with important value for classification. Quercus ilex, which is mainly distributed in the Mediterranean basin has similar epidermal features to Quercus Sect. Suber.