Taxonomic Value of Seed Characters in Orchids From Turkey

Abstract

The seed morphometry of 19 orchid species of from Turkey was studied using scanning electron microscopy. The morphometric characteristics of examined orchid seeds and embryos were recorded and compared statistically. Morphometric analysis of orchid seeds indicated that testa and embryo dimensions and morphology as well as the presence, absence or nature of reticulation on seed coat walls are of diagnostic value. In general, higher taxonomic levels such as subfamilies could be separated according to seed length. Maximum seed volumes were found in Limodorum abortivum (L.) Swartz. Based on our observations, differences in seed and embryo dimensions and percent air space exist among the different taxa of orchids. Seeds with the highest air space percentages were found in Dactylorhiza iberica (Bieb. ex Willd) Soo.