BORGARDT, SANDRA J.* and KEVIN C. NIXON. L. H. Bailey Hortorium, 462 Mann Library, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. - A phylogenetically based ovule, seed and fruit anatomical/developmental study within the genus Quercus (Fagaceae).
The final position of aborted ovules in the mature fruit of
Quercus has historically been an important character in
delimiting major subgeneric and sectional groups. Previous anatomical
studies of the aborted ovules have been restricted to the red oak
(section Lobatae) and white oak (section Quercus) groups
of subgenus Quercus. We present here a detailed analysis of
carpel and ovule development from early stages to maturity in
Quercus acutissima (section Cerris), and Q.
palmeri (section Protobalanus). In Q. acutissima,
the abortive ovules remain basal in the seed, while in Q.
palmeri they are variable in position. A comparison of abortive
ovules and of several additional fruit and seed developmental features
among the major subgroups of Quercus will be presented.
Key words: abortive ovules, acorn, carpel, Fagaceae, fruit, Quercus