Comparative morpho-anatomy of two sedges (Cyperus cyperoides(L.) Kuntze and Cyperus rotundus

Abstract

The research investigated the comparative morpho-anatomy of two sedges (Cyperus cyperoides (L.) Kuntze and Cyperus rotundus L.), members of the family Cyperaceae. They are perennial herbs and the former commonly known as commonflat sedge and the latter nut sedge or purple nutsedge. The epidermal peels were obtained by standard methods. The samples were fixed in formaldehyde, glacial acetic acid, 70% alcohol in the ratio of 1:1:18, dehydrated in alcohol solutions of 50%, 70%, 90%, absolute and sectioned, stained in 2% aqueous solution of Safranin O, counter stained in Alcian blue, mounted in glycerine.The result on epidermal studies showcased both kidney and dumbbell-shaped guard cells, graminaceous stomata which is amphistomatic for both species. The anatomical studies revealed scattered vascular bundies in ground tissues of stems, bulliform cells at adaxial foliar organs. The pith sections have large pith and a single row of barrel shaped endodermis prominently pronounced. The research findings here would assist in improving upon already existing knowledge about C. cyperoides and C rotundus.