Histo-anatomical Studies of Seed and Meristem Structure in Curculigo orchioides Gaertn.

Abstract

Background: Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. is a medicinally important species, but detailed information on the internal organisation of its mature seeds, the tissue-specific distribution of storage reserves, and the structure of its meristematic region remains limited. Aim: To investigate the seed histo-anatomy of Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. (Hypoxidaceae) and determine the localisation of major storage reserves (starch and lipids) and specialised cellular inclusions associated with seed development and germination. Study Design: A laboratory-based histological and histochemical localisation study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, India, from November 2025 to March 2026. Methodology: The anatomy and histochemistry of mature Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. seeds were examined to characterise their cellular composition. Using standard microtechniques, transverse and longitudinal hand sections of the seeds and meristematic zones were prepared and stained with safranin for structural analysis, potassium iodide for starch detection, and Oil Red O for lipid detection. Microscopic examination was used to evaluate tissue organisation, the distribution of storage reserves, and specialised cellular structures. Results: Microscopic analysis revealed the seed coat, endosperm, cotyledons, and actively growing meristematic regions. Potassium iodide staining indicated starch in the endosperm and cotyledons, while Oil Red O confirmed lipids in the same regions. The meristematic cells were tightly packed, rapidly dividing, and contained needle-shaped crystals (raphides). Together, starch and lipids may provide energy for early growth, while the raphides may contribute to defence and physiological regulation. Conclusion: This study describes the anatomical and histochemical properties of Curculigo orchioides, highlighting the distribution of nutrient reserves and specialised cellular inclusions. The findings contribute to understanding seed physiology, propagation, and quality control in this medicinally significant species.