Comparative Anatomical Study between Cayratia Mollissima, Pterisanthes Caudigera (Vitaceae) and Leea Indica (Leeaceae)

Problem statement: Leea species was originally placed in the family Vitaceae but was later placed in the Leeaceae due to the anatomical differences between the two families. Approach: A comparative study on the stem and leaf anatomy of Cayratia mollissima and Pterisanthes caudigera (Vitaceae) and Leea indica (Leeaceae) was conducted to investigate anatomical differences which could provide additional differentiating characters for supporting this treatment. Results: The Transeverse Sections (TS) revealed species differences with respect to the shape of the stems, the leaf margin, midrib and petiole. Druses were present in the leaves and stems of both species, while raphides were present in the lamina. Conclusion: Starch grains and trichomes were present only in Cayratia mollissima and Pterisanthes caudigera.