Morphology and anatomy of the stalked elaiophores of Dinemandra ericoides, an endemic Malpighiaceae of the Atacama desert, Chile.

Abstract

Calix glands were studied in the Atacama endemic Dinemandra ericoides Adr.Juss.(Malpighiaceae). Their anatomy and development are described for the first time. These oil-secreting glands (elaiophores) are anatomically different to other calix elaiophores known in the family and to other flower glands in the same species. The calix glands lack a preformed pores for oil release. The oil has to be exposed actively by the pollinator by the breakage of the cuticle. Form and position of the elaiophores are correlated to the mode of oil collection by species of Centris. The elaiophore of Dinemandra is compared in its anatomy to floral and extrafloral glands known in other members of the family.