SEM and light microscope observations on fruit and seeds in Scrophulariaceae from Southwest Spain and their systematic significance

Many studies of the morphology and anatomy of fruits and seeds of Scrophulariaceae from Southwest Spain have been made. The systematic utility of characteristics of these plant structures is discussed in order to determine relationships among the different genera included in this widely distributed family. The most useful fruit features for this study were the indumentum, capsule dehiscence and structure of the endocarp, seed-coat ornamentation, and inner structure of the seeds. In addition, phenetic analysis of 58 characters revealed that several groups of genera in Scrophulariaceae are closely related on the basis of their fruit and seed features. The phenetic relationships of genera or groups of genera are discussed. Keys to genera considered in this work, using exclusively fruit or seed characters, are provided. Lastly, the usual dispersal systems observed in this family are discussed. (C) 2000 Annals of Botany Company.