Ecological anatomy of some species of the genus Paspalum (Poaceae, Panicoideae, Paniceae)

Abstract

Paspalum L. has a large number of species with a wide morphological variability and extensive geographical distribution. Species of the genus grow in very diverse habitats, from humid or aquatic environments to dry places with clay or sandy soils, frequently saline. Given the diversity of habitats where the species of Paspalum occur, foliar anatomical characters were studied in order to explain different adaptative strategies. A description of the foliar anatomy of the genus is given, and several characters are discussed in relationship to the habitat.