Seed morphology and seed coat anatomy of some species of Apocynaceae and Asclepiadaceae

Seed shape, dimensions, surface texture and sculpture, hilum shape and position were recorded for seven species of each of the Apocynaceae and Asclepiadaceae by using light microscope (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Seven patterns were recognized based on surface sculpturing pattern: reticulate (with five subtypes), striate, ruminate, papillate, colliculate,aculeate and rugose. Anatomical investigation using light microscope showed that the hypodermis is present in the outer integument of two species and absent in the rest. The inner integument is recorded two types. The data proved useful in the construction of a bracketed key to the species. The potential taxonomic value of the recorded characters is indicated by the richness of variation recorded in the limited sample of genera and species.