Anatomical identification and diagnostic characteristics of Tragopogon pratensis (Asteraceae) within the flora of Azerbaijan
Anatomical identification and diagnostic characteristics of Tragopogon pratensis (Asteraceae) within the flora of Azerbaijan

Summary/Abstract: The study of plant anatomical structures plays a crucial role in their taxonomic identification and the determination of diagnostic characteristics. Such research facilitates accurate species recognition, clarification of systematic positions, and contributes to the scientific foundation of floristic studies. Due to the limited anatomical data available for Tragopogon pratensis L. in the flora of Azerbaijan, this study provides a novel contribution to science by identifying specific anatomical criteria for the species' identification. It represents the first comprehensive investigation of the specific anatomical structures of T. pratensis in Azerbaijan and determines its diagnostic features. Both generative and vegetative organs of T. pratensis were used as study material. Anatomical, microscopic, histochemical, and biometric methods were employed. Transverse sections from the plant's generative and vegetative organs were treated with reagents, converted into permanent slides, and the results of the microscopic analyses were statistically validated. Anatomical analysis revealed active development of aerenchyma tissue in the bracts, as well as in the leaf blade and leaf base. Distinct types of trichomes were recorded on the abaxial epidermis of both the bracts and the ligules. Specific structural characteristics were analyzed in the stamens and pistils. In the peduncle and stem, well-developed aerenchyma in the pith and schizogenous secretory cavities in the perimedullary region were observed. Endogenous laticifers were identified in transverse sections of both generative and vegetative organs. Vacuolization of ergastic and constitutional substances was detected in the mechanical, dermal, and ground tissues of T. pratensis. For the first time, a pseudoisolateral leaf structure was identified in this species within the Azerbaijani flora. In the rosette and primary root, the vascular system elements showed a predominantly radial arrangement, with parenchymatous tissues being dominant overall. In the transverse section of the lateral root, pigmentation was observed in the cell walls of the endodermis. The vascular system exhibited a radial arrangement within the central cylinder. This research demonstrates species-specific anatomical criteria for T. pratensis in the Azerbaijani flora and offers both scientific and practical contributions to the field of plant anatomy. Additionally, the findings provide valuable input for the pharmacognostic disciplines of microscopy and phytochemistry, serving as significant markers in the formation and standardization of medicinal plant raw material resources.

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