Abstract Detail

Recent Topics Posters

Ahedor , Monica [1], Ahedor, Adjoa [2].

Stomatal Investigations on Notorious Weeds of Oklahoma.

Stomata are imperative to the survival and adaptation mechanism of plants. Stomata control transpiration and photosynthesis. Studies have shown that the size and density of stomata vary from species to species. Weeds are considered undesirable plants, they have remarkable survival mechanisms that enable them to outcompete other species in the same habitat. Furthermore, weeds have evolved to withstand harsh conditions through processes such as fast growth and reproduction, and seed dormancy. They typically grow rapidly by utilizing resources which oftentimes reduces crop yield, and adversely affects the survival of neighboring species especially those that are fodder to livestock. It is, therefore, no surprise that over 26 billion dollars are spent each year in the U.S controlling weeds. Research on stomata can provide insight on the survival mechanisms of weeds thereby useful in reducing the growth and spread of weeds. In this experiment, stomata in three notorious weeds, Carduus nutans (musk thistle), Lactuca serriola (prickly lettuce), and Sonchus asper (prickly sow thistle), were investigated. These three obnoxious weeds all belong to the family Asteraceae. They were sampled from ranches in Oklahoma. Two types of sampling techniques were explored - Clear Tape Technique and Red Dye Technique. Using clear nail varnish coating and adhesive tape, imprints of the leaf undersurface epidermis were created. In the red dye method, a staining procedure using safranin was employed. Samples from both techniques were examined using a compound light microscope to identify differences in density, shape, size, and other pertinent characteristics of the stomata. Images of each species’ stomata were digitally captured and analyzed to better understand the role stomatal conductance may play in their survival mechanisms. Results indicate that C. nutans has the largest-sized stomata. S. asper also has the highest density of stomata.

1 - Rose State College, Engineering and Science Division, 6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City, Oklahoma, 73110, USA
2 - Rose State College, Engineering And Science Division, 6420 S.E. 15th Street, Midwest City, OK, 73110, United States

Keywords:
Stomata
musk thistle
prickly lettuce
prickly sow thistle
agricultural weeds.

Presentation Type: Recent Topics Poster
Session: P1, Recent Topics Posters
Location: Virtual/Virtual
Date: Thursday, July 22nd, 2021
Time: 5:00 PM(EDT)
Number: P1RT019
Abstract ID:1409
Candidate for Awards:None