Localisation and structure of sclerenchyma fibres in the stem of Sida hermaphrodita (L.) Rusby

Abstract

Contemporary consumers value more sustainable products, necessitating the sustainable use of plants, including fibre crops. Plant sclerenchyma fibres are a source of raw material used in various areas of human life. The present study was focused on analyses of sclerenchyma fibres in the Virginia mallow (Sida hermaphrodita (L.) Rusby). This energy plant, which is known for its many uses, was examined in terms of the location and differentiation of sclerenchyma fibres. They are present in the stem and are arranged in two rings formed by bundles with variable thickness. The structure of sclerenchyma fibres is typical of strengthening tissue. A characteristic trait of the studied species is the presence of various terminal fragments of dead cells in the sclerenchyma tissue. The surface of sclerenchyma fibres was examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM) for the first time. The analyses showed a varied surface sculpture of the fibre surface, depending on the method of preparation of the fibres before analyses. The study may constitute the basis for further investigations of the potential use of S. hermaphrodita sclerenchyma fibres, which may indicate a novel application of this plant. The potential use of a new source of sclerenchyma fibres obtained from the stem of S. hermaphrodita may support sustainable development.