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The Marantaceae family is composed of 550 species of pantropical distribution, with a strong clustering in the Neotropics. Although the family forms a monophyletic group, the circumscription of genera and consequently its phylogenetic relationships are not sufficiently understood. Its species produces silica phytoliths in varied forms, ornamentation and distribution in leaves, and these silica deposits are considered important in vegetable physiology and taxonomy. We have conducted the morphological characterisation of phytoliths and their distribution in foliar blades of Neotropical Marantaceae genera, evaluating the use of such characters to support the morphological delimitation of the genera and the physiological aspects of the family's adaptation to rainforests. Phytoliths of 22 species of 12 genera, namely Calathea, Ctenanthe, Goeppertia, Hylaeanthe, Ischnosiphon, Koernickanthe, Maranta, Monotagma, Myrosma, Saranthe, Stromanthe and Thalia, were analysed using light and scanning electron microscopes. When comparing Neotropical species to those of the old world, one can observe the family's homogeneity by the presence of two morphotypes in the foliar blade, the globular and the irregular, as well as stegmata associated with the fibres. However, two distinguishing features have been identified in these Neotropical species: (1) a new morphotype, the cylindroid, located in the mesophyll, (2) intra- and extracellular amorphous silica deposits associated with the stomata, which play an important role in the restriction of transpiration. In addition, the form, size and distribution of the silica deposits appear conservative in all analysed samples, which makes them useful in the morphological characterisation of the genera and species, and consequently, in the taxonomic circumscription of the Marantaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf rolling is a dehydration avoidance mechanism for plants under drought stress. To understand how it affects the lignification process in response to long-term drought stress in Ctenanthe setosa plants that have the leaf-rolling mechanism, the enzymes in lignification were studied in unrolled leaves as a control and at 2 different leaf rolling indices at days 35 and 47 of the drought period. The results indicated that the activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase, indole-3-acetic acid oxidase, soluble peroxidase, ionically wall-bound peroxidase, covalently wall-bound peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase were increased during long-term drought stress. However, nitrate reductase activity was decreased while lignin content was increasing during the period of drought. Lignin content was positively correlated to activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase, indole-3-acetic acid oxidase, soluble peroxidase, ionically wall-bound peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase, but it was negatively correlated to activity of nitrate reductase. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between leaf rolling and lignin content. The results indicate that the leaf-rolling process may be related to the lignification mechanism in alleviating damage from stress in Ctenanthe setosa under long-term drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peat mined from endangered wetland ecosystems is generally used as a component in soilless potting media in horticulture but is a costly and non-renewable natural resource. The objective of this work was to study the feasibility of replacing peat with different percentages (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, and 100%) of composted green waste (CGW) as growth media for the production of the ornamental plant Calathea insignis. Compared with 100% peat media, media containing CGW had improved physical and chemical characteristics to achieve the acceptable ranges. Moreover, CGW addition had increased the stability (i.e., reduced the decomposition rates) of growth media mixtures, as indicated by comparison of particle-size distribution at the start and end of a 7-month greenhouse experiment. Addition of CGW also supported increased plant growth (biomass production, root morphology, nutrient contents, and photosynthetic pigment contents). The physical and chemical characteristics of growth media and plant growth were best with a medium containing 70% CGW and were better in a medium with 100% CGW than in one with 100% peat media. These results indicate that CGW is a viable alternative to peat for the cultivation of Calathea insignis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peat mined from endangered wetland ecosystems is generally used as a component in soilless potting media in horticulture but is a costly and non-renewable natural resource. The objective of this work was to study the feasibility of replacing peat with different percentages (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, and 100%) of composted green waste (CGW) as growth media for the production of the ornamental plant Calathea insignis. Compared with 100% peat media, media containing CGW had improved physical and chemical characteristics to achieve the acceptable ranges. Moreover, CGW addition had increased the stability (i.e., reduced the decomposition rates) of growth media mixtures, as indicated by comparison of particle-size distribution at the start and end of a 7-month greenhouse experiment. Addition of CGW also supported increased plant growth (biomass production, root morphology, nutrient contents, and photosynthetic pigment contents). The physical and chemical characteristics of growth media and plant growth were best with a medium containing 70% CGW and were better in a medium with 100% CGW than in one with 100% peat media. These results indicate that CGW is a viable alternative to peat for the cultivation of Calathea insignis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea croatii H. Kenn., endemic to Panama, is described as new for inclusion in Flora Mesoamericana. It occurs in montane wet to cloud forest habitat and is only known from one collection each from Prov. Chirquí, Com. Ngäbe-Buglé and Prov. Coclé. It shares a similar habit, leaf venation and inflorescence morphology with the closely related C. guzmanioides L.B. Sm. & Idrobo. Calathea croatii differs from C. guzmanioides in the glabrous vs. tomentose major veins of the adaxial leaf surface and the bracts ovate to narrowly ovate with apex acute vs. broadly ovate to broadly elliptic with broadly obtuse to rounded apex (bract length to width ratios 2.62-2.75 vs. 0.95-1.78:1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Marantaceae are a pantropically distributed family of perennial herbs and lianas in the understory of tropical rainforests. They are characterized by a unique pollen transfer mechanism. To understand its functional significance and evolution, field investigations have been conducted in Gabon. Data from 28 (of 35) species from Central Africa are achieved. The pollen–ovule ratio (34–140:1; exception Sarcophrynium 2.5:1) falls into the range of facultative autogamous species. All investigated species were proven to be self-compatible; however, only two were autogamous. Natural fruit set was generally low (10.9±10%). The highest natural fruit set was found in Marantochloa purpurea (29.7%), Ma. grandiflora (33.5%) and the two autogamous species Halopegia azurea (31%) and Marantochloa leucantha (35%). Considerable higher fruit set could be reached in all species by hand-self-pollination. We conclude that autogamy is generally avoided through herkogamy based on secondary pollen presentation on the back of the style head – a central component of the specific pollen transfer mechanism. However, with respect to the consecutive visit of pollinators to several flowers of the same individual geitonogamy cannot be excluded. The aggregated pollen transfer via the explosive pollination mechanism might be interpreted as an adaptation to low pollinator visitation rate, pollen limitation might explain the low fruit set. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

AFLP markers are often used to study patterns of population genetic variation and gene flow because they offer a good coverage of the nuclear genome, but the reliability of AFLP scoring is critical. To assess interspecific gene flow in two African rainforest liana species ( Haumania danckelmaniana, H. liebrechtsiana) where previous evidence of chloroplast captures questioned the importance of hybridization and species boundaries, we developed new AFLP markers and a novel approach to select reliable bands from their degree of reproducibility. The latter is based on the estimation of the broad-sense heritability of AFLP phenotypes, an improvement over classical scoring error rates, which showed that the polymorphism of most AFLP bands was affected by a substantial nongenetic component. Therefore, using a quantitative genetics framework, we also modified an existing estimator of pairwise kinship coefficient between individuals correcting for the limited heritability of markers. Bayesian clustering confirms the recognition of the two Haumania species. Nevertheless, the decay of the relatedness between individuals of distinct species with geographic distance demonstrates that hybridization affects the nuclear genome. In conclusion, although we showed that AFLP markers might be substantially affected by nongenetic factors, their analysis using the new methods developed considerably advanced our understanding of the pattern of gene flow in our model species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of forest herb availability improves knowledge of ecology and conservation of gorillas that depend on such herbs. Density patterns of herbs and location of western gorilla nest sites were studied in different habitat types at a site in south-east Cameroon to assess their relationship. Herb stems of the families Marantaceae and Zingiberaceae were identified and counted in 10,713 1-m2 plots distributed within six habitat types. Stem density correlated with light availability and ranged from 2.38 stems m−² in near primary forest to 4.66 stems m−² in light gaps. Gorillas showed marked preferences for habitats with high herb densities such as light gaps, swamps and young secondary forest. However, no clear relationship exists between terrestrial herbaceous vegetation and gorilla densities across Central Africa. It is suggested that differences in ecological factors and land use history within and between sites may explain differences in herb density and diversity which partly account for variations in the historical and present population distribution and density of western gorillas. Formerly logged and swamp forests, which are characterized by an abundance of herbs, may prove to be of great value in the conservation of western gorillas given appropriate forest management practices, adequate protection from poaching and limited human encroachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of salicylic acid (SA) on leaf rolling under osmotic stress in Ctenanthe setosa (Roscoe) Eichler were evaluated. The leaves were pretreated with SA, paclobutrazol (PAC), and antioxidant enzyme inhibitors for 15 h and then kept in polyethylene glycol (PEG) for 4 h to promote osmotic stress. The degree of leaf rolling was measured every hour during the 4-h PEG treatment. Antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and guaiacol peroxidase) and NADPH oxidase (NOX) activities, endogenous SA contents, hydrogen peroxide, proline, and soluble sugar were determined immediately after PEG treatment. SA treatment retarded leaf rolling and induced antioxidant enzyme activities under osmotic stress. Antioxidant enzyme inhibitors and PAC treatments caused reductions in all antioxidant enzyme activities and accelerated leaf rolling. The PAC treatment also decreased endogenous SA, hydrogen peroxide, proline, and soluble sugar contents and NOX activity. In conclusion, the delay in leaf rolling resulting from SA application was related to the antioxidant enzyme activities and also to osmoprotectants. These were supported by the increase in leaf rolling degree due to PAC, which led to a decrease in proline and sugar contents and antioxidant enzyme activities due to a decrease in hydrogen peroxide content followed by a reduction in NOX activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thalia dealbata Fraser-derived biochar was prepared at different carbonization temperatures to remove nutrients in aqueous solution. Thermogravimetry/differential thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) was used to analyze the carbonization and decomposition procedure of Thalia dealbata Fraser. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential, and N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherms were employed to characterize the prepared biochar. The carbonization temperature obviously effected the physical and chemical properties of biochar. The adsorption efficiency of ammonia (NH 4 + -N), nitrate (NO 3 - -N), and phosphate (PO 4 3- ) adsorption on biochar was tested. Pseudo-first-order kinetic, pseudo-second-order kinetic, and intra-particle diffusion kinetic models were used to fit adsorption kinetic. Langmuir and Freundlich models were used to fit adsorption isotherms. The theoretical adsorption capacity of NH 4 + -N, NO 3 - -N, and PO 4 3- on biochar was 5.8 mg/g, 3.8 mg/g, and 1.3 mg/g, respectively. This study provides the insights for effect of carbonization temperature on biochar preparation and application., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Myrosma is a genus of rosulate herbs characterized by a compact and strongly monosymmetric inflorescence with conspicuous, white to pale green, mostly membranous bracts, in the axil of which is a single flower pair. The genus is widely distributed throughout Central Brazil, northern South America, and the Caribbean region. It occurs mostly in savannah environments but can also be found in humid and shaded habitats. We present a taxonomic revision of Myrosma recognizing a single species, Myrosma cannifolia L.f. A complete description of that species is provided with notes on its ecology, distribution, and variation. Three species and one variety are reduced into synonymy and four names are lectotypified. A complete nomenclatural account for all combinations including the name Myrosma is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: During the Middle–Upper Triassic the fern genus Danaeopsis was widely distributed in both hemispheres. Danaeopsis fronds are simple pinnate with elongate pinnae characterised by a strong midrib and secondary veins that anastomose near the margin. The sporangia of the fertile pinnae are roundish and organised in two parallel rows between the veins. From the main collections of Triassic plants in Europe more than 750 specimens belonging to this genus have been studied and this study has been implemented with literature data. After this study four different species can be distinguished in Europe, based on the angle of pinna attachment to the rachis and the venation pattern: Danaeopsis angustifolia (pinnae attached perpendicularly, almost no anastomosing near the margin), Danaeopsis marantacea (pinnae attached perpendicularly, anastomosing of secondary veins covering up to 1/3rd of the lamina), Danaeopsis lunzensis (pinnae attachment acute, anastomosing of secondary veins covering up to half of the lamina) and Danaeopsis fecunda (pinnae attachment acute, veins anastomose scarcely near the margin). From three species, D. marantacea, D. lunzensis and D. fecunda, trilete in situ spores were extracted which differ only in dimensions. Danaeopsis belongs to the Marattiaceae and represents, together with Symopteris, the ferns with the biggest fern fronds during the Middle–Late Triassic. Although no complete fronds were found so far, the fronds probably reached a length of 1–2m. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study which evaluates the failure of Calathea marantaceae plant to provide redefining generic limits due to incomplete sampling of taxons. The study analyzed the DNA sequence of Calathea from one nuclear marker and three plastid markers. Results reveal that Calathea is considered as polyphyletic.

Stromanthe idroboi Yoshida-Arns, Mayo & J. M. A. Braga, a new species from the montane forests of Colombia and Venezuela, is described and illustrated. Its morphological relationship with S. jacquinii (Roemer & Schultes) Kennedy & Nicolson is discussed. The description, distribution and a detailed illustration of the new species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea lanibracteata H. Kenn. and Calathea confusa H. Kenn., both endemic to Panama, are described as new. They share a similar habit, inflorescence and bract morphology with the closely related C. allenii Woodson as well as the absence of both secondary bracts and bracteoles. Calathea lanibracteata is distinguished from C. allenii and C. confusa by the narrowly ovate-elliptic vs. ovate leaf blade (leaf length to width ratio 5.42-7.17:1 vs. 1.57-2.83:1) and villous (hairs 3-4 mm) vs. glabrous or minutely tomentose petioles. Calathea confusa is most similar in appearance and most closely related to C. allenii. Calathea confusa differs by the more numerous minor veins between major lateral veins (7 vs. 1-3), greater distance between major veins ([6-]8-14 vs. 2.5-4.5 mm) and more widely spaced cross-veinlets (27 to 34 vs. 42 to 47 per 5 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea rhizanthoides H. Kenn., sp. nov. and C. peregrina H. Kenn., sp. nov., both endemic to Panamá, are described as new for inclusion in Flora Mesoamericana. Calathea rhizanthoides is characterized by the single leaf per shoot and the inflorescence usually borne on a separate, leafless, shoot directly from the rhizome. It differs from C. verecunda H. Kenn. by the broader leaf blades (9.1-16.5 vs. 4-8 cm), the bracts with rounded vs. acute to acuminate apices and from C. cleistantha Standl. by the single vs. 2-4(-9) leaves per shoot. Calathea peregrina differs from the closely related C. portobelensis H. Kenn. in the narrower angle of divergence of the lateral veins from the midrib (38°-47° vs. 46°-62°) and the more widely spaced lateral veins (11-14 vs. 17-22 per 3 cm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flowers of Marantaceae (∼ 550 species) exhibit a highly derived pollination mechanism within Zingiberales, with a rapid and irreversible style movement based on a close synorganization of different floral parts. Given the complexity of the structure, we assume that little variation is possible if functionality is to be maintained. To test this, we investigated how much floral diversity exists in the clade and whether this diversity potentially influences the breeding system and placement of pollen on the pollinator. Flowers of 66 species covering the five major phylogenetic clades of the family were analysed. All species are similar in their basic flower construction: the fleshy staminode forms the tunnel-shaped roof of the flower and narrows the tube with stiff swellings, and the hooded staminode holds the style under tension and narrows the flower entrance with its trigger appendage. Despite morphological diversity of the pollination apparatus, functionality is maintained by coordinated variation of the fleshy and hooded staminodes. Autogamy is usually avoided by herkogamy. However, in a few exceptions, subtle morphological changes alter the breeding system from allogamy to autogamy. Variable floral proportions allow for differential pollen deposition potentially causing mechanical isolation between sister taxa. This study clearly illustrates that structural variation is not only present in the highly synorganized flowers of Marantaceae, but that it also creates potentially new options for evolutionary diversification. © 2012 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2012, 168, 300-322. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thaumatococcus daniellii is a perennial African wild edible plant. Fruit arils from natural populations are the source of the protein sweetener, thaumatin. There are relatively few documented examples of its cultivation, however it has great potential as an intercrop for cultivation under rubber or cocoa. Across the species range there is notable diversity in leaf and fruit morphology. In this study, T. daniellii populations from four provenances in Ghana and Cameroon (separated by the Dahomey Gap) were compared for leaf and fruit morphology in situ and in an experiment using plants grown from sampled rhizomes planted under rubber in a single location in Cameroon. When collected rhizomes from four provenances were planted at one location, the samples from the local provenance produced the largest plants and fruits, and there was less morphological variation between samples from different provenances than was recorded in situ. In situ morphological differences were notable between north-south separated provenances in each country. Fruit collected in situ was analysed for aril thaumatin content and significant variation was found between provenances (1.08-2.00%). Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was used to assess genetic diversity among the four provenances and 54% of loci were polymorphic. Cluster analysis of AFLP data separated samples of T. daniellii according to geographical origin. Maximum genetic diversity was found between provenances separated across the Dahomey Gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new species Pyriculariopsis calatheae is described causing leaf spots on Calathea longifolia (Marantaceae). It represents an addition to the mycobiota of the tropical seasonal semi-deciduous montane forest, a component of the Brazilian Atlantic forest and a highly threatened ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stromanthe bahiensis Yoshida-Arns, Mayo & J. M. A. Braga sp. nov. (Marantaceae) is described as an endemic to the Atlantic Forest coast of southern Bahia State in Brazil. It is similar to S. hjalmarssonii (Körn.) Petersen, which is restricted to Central America, but differs from it by the following characteristics: petiole 14-70 cm long, leaf blade oblong-ovate to ovate-lanceolate, fertile bracts 18-30×2-4 mm, narrowly lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate, sepals 4-6 mm long, corolla lobes 3.0-3.5 mm long, outer staminodes 2.0-3.5×1-2 mm, pale bluish or purplish, callose staminode 2-3×1-2 mm, cucullate staminode 2-3 mm long and ovary hirsute. The new species is described and illustrated with diagnostic characters, taxonomic comments and remarks on its conservation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the morphological and ecological traits of the Marantaceae family of the order Zingiberales to test the hypothesis that explosive pollination mechanism was a key innovator that favor its speciation. DNA studies of the phylogenies of two clades, the Sarcophrynium and Marantochloa revealed a molecular relationship of the genera that are congruent with existing family phylogeny. It is concluded that although explosive pollination may have contributed in optimizing the mating system, it did not directly force speciation.

Abstract: Few species of true butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) have evolved a proboscis that greatly exceeds the length of the body. This study is the first to examine the morphology of an extremely long butterfly proboscis and to describe how it is used to obtain nectar from flowers with very deep corolla tubes. The proboscis of Eurybia lycisca (Riodinidae) is approximately twice as long as the body. It has a maximal length of 45.6 mm (mean length 36.5 mm ± 4.1 S.D., N = 20) and is extremely thin, measuring only about 0.26 mm at its maximum diameter. The proboscis has a unique arrangement of short sensilla at the tip, and its musculature arrangement is derived. The flower handling times on the preferred nectar plant, Calathea crotalifera (Marantaceae), were exceptionally long (mean 54.5 sec ± 28.5 S.D., N = 26). When feeding on the deep flowers remarkably few proboscis movements occur. The relationship between Eurybia lycisca and its preferred nectar plant and larval host plant, Calathea crotalifera, is not mutualistic since the butterfly exploits the flowers without contributing to their pollination. We hypothesize that the extraordinarily long proboscis of Eurybia lycisca is an adaptation for capitalizing on the pre-existing mutualistic interaction of the host plant with its pollinating long-tongued nectar feeding insects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During the investigation of phytoliths in Holocene sediments from the site complex of Ounjougou/Mali, we recognized several conspicuous types which were initially attributed to Marantaceae and Cyperaceae. Systematic screening of West African herbarium specimens revealed that they originate from the seeds of Commelinaceae, a family of mostly tropical and subtropical monocotyledonous herbs. In West Africa, this family is represented by a limited number of taxa, most of them with clear ecological preferences in anthropogenic (segetal and ruderal) plant communities and wetlands. From 22 species occurring in the Sahelian, Sudanian and Guineo–Congolian zones of West Africa, phytolith extracts were prepared and studied with transmittent light. Microscopic seed sections were prepared and examined with SEM to document the original anatomical position. Three morphotype groups were distinguished: 1. polygonal platelets; 2. flat polygonal prisms with conical top; and 3. subcylindric, distinctly anisopolar, the upper part polygonal prismatic with conical top. Depending on the presence or absence of central protuberances and peculiarities of surface vesturing distinct subtypes could be described. The investigations have shown that identification of Commelinaceae seed phytoliths is often possible at low taxonomic levels. We report here the results of this comparative study and discuss the potential inherent for palaeoecological interpretations in West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on a study which investigated the changes in the activities among apoplastic and symplastic antioxidant status, stomatal conductance and water potential during leaf rolling in Ctenanthe setosa (Rosc.) Eichler (Marantaceae) under drought stress. It references related studies on drought stress effects. A description of the study's materials and methodology is offered. Findings showed that highest changes were noted in catalase and guaiacol peroxidase activities, however, no change was noted in superoxide dismutase.

The flowers of Marantaceae are known for their unique pollination mechanism mediated by an explosive style movenient. The mechanism is based on the highly modified elements of the inner androecial whorl, i.e., the single half-fertile anther and the fleshy and hooded staminodes. We investigated 67 species across 24 genera to elucidate which parts of the hooded staminode are shared by all species, thus likely under strong selection pressure, and which are allowed to vary. We treated hooded staminodes as character syndromes and grouped them based on gross similarities. We identified characters underlying the similarity and investigated their diversity and developmental pathways. All hooded staminodes correspond in their geiieral morphology, development and vascularisation, suggesting they are homologous. Variable proportions, differential growth and the formation of secondary structures result in a diversity of morphologies. The hooded staminodes can be grouped into ten distinct types. These morphological types are in accordance with the accepted clades ofthe family indicating their phylogenetic significance. The early diverging clades are characterised by stiffand elaborate staminode structures whereas in more distantly diverging clades simplified forms appear. We conclude that elaborate structures are not essential to maintain the pollination mechanism and thus have been reduced in the course of evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The irreversible style movement in Marantaceae is one of the quickest plant movements ever recorded. It is largely based on a special tissue construction, which is analysed herein for the first time. Histological sections, fluorescence and different electron microscopic techniques are used to study the style tissue of eight species in six genera of the Marantaceae. Tissue sections prior to the thigmonastic movement are only obtained after ether or chloroform narcosis. The tissue in the bending zone of the style has the construction of a lamellar collenchyma with elongated cells and extended intercellular spaces. The thicker cell walls abut the intercellular spaces, while the thinner walls between adjacent cells are extraordinarily porous. The tissue is thus characterised by strongly perforated cell bundles which are able to slide alongside each other and the intercellular spaces. Cell-wall loosening starts about 24 h before flowering and is interpreted as a result of enzymatic ageing processes. It is also found in other members of the Zingiberales, but only the Marantaceae take advantage of the maceration process. We conclude that the specific tissue construction contributes to the rapid style movement. It combines qualities for stabilisation (collenchyma), pliability (intercellular spaces) and water transport (extremely porous tissue), thus supporting the irreversible style bending by a sudden and final shift of fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the antioxidant system and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of Ctenanthe setosa family of Marantaceae plant. It says that C. setosa is a plant species which rolls its leaves for response to drought in which it is a kind of post-stress emerging (PSE). Methods include measurement of leaf water potential, monitor of stomatal conductance, and measurement of lipid peroxidation. Results show that the PSE plants made drought tolerance through reduction of leaf area.

Leaf volatile chemicals are known to reduce herbivory rates by repelling or intoxicating insect herbivores and by attracting the predators and parasitoids of herbivores. However, leaf volatiles may also be used by insect herbivores as cues to locate their host plants. Leaf volatiles are suggested to be important host search cues for herbivores in structurally complex and diverse habitats, such as tropical rain forests. A group of insect herbivores, the rolled-leaf beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Hispinae), have maintained a highly specialized interaction with Neotropical gingers (Zingiberales) for ca. 60 million years. In this study, we explored chemical attraction to host plants under controlled laboratory conditions, using four sympatric rolled-leaf beetle species, Cephaloleia dorsalis Baly, Cephaloleia erichsonii Baly, Cephaloleia fenestrata Weise, and Cephaloleia placida Baly. For each beetle species, we investigated (i) whether it was repelled or attracted by leaf scents produced by four host and four non-host plant species, including Neotropical gingers in the families Marantaceae, Costaceae, and Zingiberaceae; and (ii) its ability to use scents to detect its host plant. We found that rolled-leaf beetles can detect and are attracted by leaf volatiles from both host and non-host gingers. Additionally, when beetles were simultaneously exposed to leaf volatiles from host and non-host plants, three rolled-leaf beetle species were significantly more attracted by volatiles from their host plants than from non-hosts. Only one of the beetle species was not able to discriminate between host and non-host scents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) is an edible starch, commercially available as powder, prepared from the roots of the plant family Marantaceae. Arrowroot is well known for its medicinal effects and use as chief ingredient in infant cookies. Arrowroot in film form is prepared and its microwave absorption characteristics, permittivity, loss factor, conductivity, skin depth, and heating coefficient are analyzed. The results are quite promising and can be concluded that arrowroot in film form is a potential candidate for several applications in medical field, when compared with well studied chitosan film. © 2009 Wiley Pe riodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 1267–1270, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24304 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight genera and approximately 55 species of Marantaceae occur in Asia. Until recently these were the most poorly understood members of the family, but over the last few years much progress have been made in understanding their alpha taxonomy and distribution. Generic delimitation and phylogenetic relationships between genera, however, remain unclear. We analysed phylogenetic relationships in Asian Marantaceae using maximum parsimony and Bayesian analysis of plastid ( rps16 intron) and nuclear [internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1 and 5S-non-transcribed spacer (NTS)] DNA sequence data. The results show that two Asian genera, Halopegia and Stachyphrynium, are well-defined monophyletic entities that should be maintained in their current form. Schumannianthus virgatus is sister to Halopegia and should be transferred to a genus of its own. Phacelophrynium, Monophrynium and Cominsia are nested within a paraphyletic Phrynium. Within this large clade, a number of geographically focused monophyletic species groups can be identified, in some cases corroborated by flower and fruit characters not previously emphasized in taxonomic studies, but these do not provide a useful framework for a revised generic classification. A revised generic classification of Asian Marantaceae is supplied, including the description of a new genus Indianthus Suksathan & Borchs. to which S. virgatus is transferred. © 2009 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2009, 159, 381–395. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexually and clonally produced offspring may respond to environmental heterogeneity by growing and surviving at different rates. In forest understories, the availability of light ranges from low in shaded, closed canopy to high in tree-fall gaps. We experimentally investigated the growth and survival of both types of offspring in three treatments (gap centers, gap edges, and shaded understory) over 16 months. We expected the demographic performance of both types of offspring to be highest in the centers of gaps and lowest in the shaded understory. However, we expected seedlings to be more sensitive to the gradient in light (larger difference in growth and survival between light levels) than vegetative offspring because of their small size and lack of connection to maternal resources. Both offspring types grew fastest and obtained their largest sizes in gap centers. Contrary to our expectations, offspring types differed in which light conditions favored highest survival. Seedlings survived best in gap centers, while vegetative offspring had their highest survival in the shaded understory. In agreement with our hypothesis, survival and growth of seedlings were more sensitive to light availability, showing a large difference in growth and survival between light levels, compared to vegetative offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major advantage of clonal growth forms is the intergenerational transfer of resources through vascular connections (clonal integration). Connections linking ramets can be persistent or ephemeral. For species with ephemeral connections, whether the extent of clonal integration changes over time is unclear. To address this issue, we tracked water movement using an isotopic label and assessed the demographic performance of parent and offspring ramets over time in a severing experiment. Our study system was the understory herb Calathea marantifolia, which has parent ramets that produce vegetative bulbils (clonal offspring) that pass through distinct pre- and post-rooting stages. Little water was transported between parents and offspring, and the direction of movement was primarily from parent to pre-rooting offspring. Anatomical observations of inter-ramet connections showed that vascular bundles were twice as abundant in parent stems compared to inter-ramet connections. Severing inter-ramet connections reduced the growth of offspring ramets but not parents. Survival of pre-rooting offspring was reduced by 10% due to severing, but post-rooting offspring were not affected. Our results suggest that offspring ramets of C. marantifolia are weaned from their parent as they progress from pre- to post-rooting stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In a survey of the higher plants for families with rosmarinic acid-accumulating species we could show for the first time, that some species of the family Marantaceae of the order Zingiberales accumulate rosmarinic acid. Other compounds detected in Marantaceae are chlorogenic acid and rutin (quercetin 3-O-rutinoside). Out of 35 species coming from 9 different genera extracted and analysed, two species of Maranta (Maranta leuconeura, Maranta depressa) and one Thalia species (Thalia geniculata) showed the presence of rosmarinic acid. The two Maranta species additionally contained chlorogenic acid, which was also present in Stromanthe amabilis. Rutin was detected in the genera Calathea, Ctenanthe, Maranta, Pleiostachya and Thalia. For a comparison, species from six other families of the Zingiberales were analysed as well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Maranta is a neotropical genus, species of which are found in moist and shaded habitats in forests and in the cerrado. During the preparation of Maranta's monograph for the Flora Neotropica, four new species were discovered and are now described: Maranta longiflora S.Vieira & V.C.Souza, Maranta coriacea S.Vieira & V.C.Souza, Maranta pulchra S.Vieira & V.C.Souza and Maranta purpurea S.Vieira & V.C.Souza. These species are found in dry habitats, frequently near watercourses or occasionally in humid and shaded places. Two, M. pulchra and M. purpurea, seem to be endemic to the state of Mato Grosso. © 2008 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2008, 158, 131–139. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Atlantic Montane Rain Forest of south-eastern Brazil, a field study was carried out to describe the forest disturbance regime, analyse canopy gap composition and evaluate the influence of habitat parameters on gap tree species composition. We characterized canopy gaps considering the group of variables as follows: area, type and number of tree/branch falls, topographic position, soil coverage and surrounding canopy trees. Gap composition was assessed at species level by measuring all individuals inside gaps higher than one meter. Mean gap area of the 42 canopy gaps analysed was 71.9 ± 9.0 m² (mean ± SE). Out of the studied gaps, 35.7% were created by uprooted and by snapped trees, 16.7% by dead-standing trees and 11.9% by the fall of large branches. The disturbance regime was characterized by gap openings predominantly smaller than 150 m² and by spatial patterning related to topography. Ridges had smaller gaps and higher proportions of gaps created by branch falls; slopes had bigger gaps generally created by uprooting events. The more abundant and frequent species were shade tolerant and the more species-rich families found inside gaps did not differ from the forest as a whole. Pioneer species were rare and restricted to medium and large size classes. The Indicator Species Analysis and the Canonical Correspondence Analysis indicated gap area, topography and the percentage of soil cover by the genera Calathea and Ctenanthe were the predominant variables correlated with woody species distribution. So, topography emerged as an important issue not only to the gap disturbance regime, but also to gap colonization. In respect to the influence of gap processes on the Atlantic Montane Rain Forest regeneration, our results support the view that canopy gap events may not be working as promoters of community wide floristic shifts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Marantaceae stand out from other plant families through their unique style movement which is combined with a highly derived form of secondary pollen presentation. Although known for a long time, the mechanism underlying the movement is not yet understood. In this paper, we report an investigation into the biomechanical principles of this movement. For the first time we experimentally confirm that, in Maranta noctiflora, longitudinal growth of the maturing style within the ‘straitjacket’ of the hooded staminode involves both arresting of the style before tripping and building up of potential for the movement. The longer the style grows in relation to the enclosing hooded staminode, the more does its capacity for curling increase. We distinguish between the basic tension that a growing style builds up normally, even when the hooded staminode is removed beforehand, and the induced tension which comes about only under the pressure of a too short hooded staminode and which enables the movement. The results of our investigations are discussed in relation to previous interpretations, ranging from biomechanical to electrophysiological mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea dryadica and Calathea reginae are described, circumscribed and illustrated. These new species are probably endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Rio de Janeiro State in Southeast Brazil and are considered critically endangered because of the restricted geographic area of occurrence, sometimes enclosed by densely urbanised areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thalia geniculata L. (Marantaceae) is an African medicinal plant traditionally used in Benin to treat malaria and other parasitic diseases. There is little ethnobotanical and almost no chemical information available for this species. The phytochemical analysis of the aerial parts of the plant led to the isolation of five compounds, identified as sitoindoside I [β-sitosterol-(6-O-hexadeca-noyl)-3-O-β-d-glucoside] (1), daucosterol β-sitosterol-3-0-β-d-glucoside (2), stigmasterol (3), β-sitosterol (4), and geranylfarnesol (5). The structural elucidation was achieved using spectrometric methods and by comparison with the literature. Biological activity was evaluated against Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma rhodesiense, Trypanosoma cruzi,and Leishmania donovani. Geranylfarnesol (5) showed significant antiprotozoal activity against P. falciparum and L. donovani, with IC50 values of 12.7 and 13.2 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate descriptions of feeding habits are essential to understanding the evolution of dietary preferences and the high levels of diversification within the Chrysomelidae. Both primary observations and summaries suggest that the cassidine beetle tribe, Cephaloleiini, is a species-rich group of feeding specialists on monocot hosts. However, accurate host ranges are poorly defined for most hispine beetle species. To better document occurrence and feeding, we censused the Cephaloleiini associated with rolled leaves of five species of Marantaceae and six species of Heliconiaceae (Zingiberales) in lowland Central Panama. Additionally, we conducted choice and no-choice feeding tests on a subset of both the plants and beetles encountered in the censuses. Both types of data suggest that most species of Cephaloleiini feed on a greater variety of related plant species than has previously been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of chilling on photosystem II (PSII) efficiency was studied in the variegated leaves of Calathea makoyana, in order to gain insight into the causes of chilling-induced photoinhibition. Additionally, a relationship was revealed between (chilling) stress and variation in photosynthesis. Chilling treatments (5 °C and 10 °C) were performed for different durations (1–7 d) under a moderate irradiance (120 μmol m−2 s−1). The individual leaves were divided into a shaded zone and two illuminated, chilled zones. The leaf tip and sometimes the leaf base were not chilled. Measurements of the dark-adapted Fv/Fm were made on the different leaf zones at the end of the chilling treatment, and then for several days thereafter to monitor recovery. Chilling up to 7 d in the dark did not affect PSII efficiency and visual appearance, whereas chilling in the light caused severe photoinhibition, sometimes followed by leaf necrosis. Photoinhibition increased with the duration of the chilling period, whereas, remarkably, chilling temperature had no effect. In the unchilled leaf tip, photoinhibition also occurred, whereas in the unchilled leaf base it did not. Whatever the leaf zone, photoinhibition became permanent if the mean value dropped below 0.4, although chlorosis and necrosis were associated solely with chilled illuminated tissue. Starch accumulated in the unchilled leaf tip, in contrast to the adjacent chilled irradiated zone. This suggests that photoinhibition was due to a secondary effect in the unchilled leaf tip (sink limitation), whereas it was a direct effect of chilling and irradiance in the chilled illuminated zones. The PSII efficiency and its coefficient of variation showed a unique negative linearity across all leaf zones and different tissue types. The slope of this curve was steeper for chilled leaves than it was for healthy, non-stressed leaves, suggesting that the coefficient of variation may be an important tool for assessing stress in leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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