Microsculpture of cypsela surface of Bellis L. (Asteraceae) in Libya.

In this study, the cypsela surfaces of three taxa belonging to the genus Bellis L. were investigated in details by means of electron microscopy. The main aim of this study was to characterize the microsculpture of cypsela surface of the Libyan taxa of Bellis. (Asteraceae). Detailed descriptions of cypsela surface were given for each taxon. The results indicated that the examined taxa had very high variations regarding their cypselae surfaces and these variations have great importance in determining the taxonomic relationships of the discussed taxa. Based on the results, pericarp texture and color could be used for taxonomical diagnosis. The fruit coat was usually roguish and its ornamentation was fairly variable; therefore, this taxonomical microcharacter might also be useful in distinguishing closely related taxa. The hairiness of the surface of the pericarp was characteristic in the studied taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]