Macro and Micro Morphological Study of Three Species of the Genus Datura Collected from Tuti Island, Khartoum, Sudan

Abstract

The present study is an effort to provide authenticated taxonomic guidelines to identify three species of the genus Datura in Sudan. These guidelines are macro and micro morphological characterizations of the three species. For macro- morphological characteristics, preliminary species identification was carried out using regional flora and botanical guides, including flora of Sudan and online database. Microscopic characteristics are investigated using light microscope (Leica DM 750) equipped with a Qwin system and video camera (Leica ICC50 HD).  The study provided clear morphological descriptions and photographic documentation of the three species. Fruit capsules exhibited clear variations through the studied species. The cell wall patterns were quite distinct. Type and location of calcium crystals provided taxonomic value of the studied species. The mesophyll layer is differentiated into one layer in case of Datura forex while it divided into 2-3 layers in case of Datura stramonium and Datura innoxia. Trichomes were unicellular with gland in case of D. stramonium and multicellular with non-gland in case of D. innoxia. The detailed macro- and micro-morphological observations and dichotomous keys enhance the reliability of the three species identification. The study is important because it fills a significant gap in regional floristic and taxonomic documentation of the genus Datura in Sudan, especially regarding D. ferox, which is newly recorded for the region. Also, the study is vital for both taxonomic and ethnobotanical studies. Moreover, the findings have potential applications in pharmacognosy and conservation planning.