Pericarp ontogeny of Tapirira guianensis Aubl. (Anacardiaceae) reveals a secretory endocarp in young stage

Most species of Anacardiaceae have drupes containing secretory structures.. The substances produced by these structures may have importance to industry and folk medicine, and may even cause allergenic effects. This work describes the ontogeny of pericarp of Tapirira guianensis with an emphasis on the secretory structures present at different stages of development. Ovary and fruits in various stages of development were collected, fixed and processed for studies using light and scanning electron microscopy according to conventional techniques. Histochemical tests were employed to identify the major metabolites present in the tissues. The fruit is a drupe formed by exocarp, mesocarp containing secretory ducts and idioblasts, and endocarp with some lignified layers. Fruit growth occurs through the division and elongation of cells. The secretory ducts produce mainly phenols and lipids and are active during all stages of development. The secreted substances protect the fruit against pathogens and predators. In ripe fruits the cells of the mesocarp accumulate starch. This study is the first report of the presence of a secretory endocarp in young fruits of a species of Anacardiaceae. The substances produced by the endocarp in early developmental stages may play an important role in seed dispersal and germination.