The ligule morphology in three Indian species of the genus Selaginella, e.g., S. bryopteris, S. repanda and S. panchghaniana is described for the first time. Though the leaves (ventral and dorsal) in all the three species are typically normal, some dorsal leaves in S. panchghaniana have two ligules, bifid tips and lobed bases. The form of ligules is variable within each species but the overall shape (outline) is constant. The size of ligules may be influenced by environmental conditions. The presence of glandular cells at the margin of the tip of ligules indicates a water secreting function.
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

American Fern Journal
Vol. 100 • No. 2
April 2010
Vol. 100 • No. 2
April 2010
leaves
ligule
lobed
Selaginella
shape and glandular cells