Abiotic Elements Shaping Leaf Trichome Diversity In Plectranthus Amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng

Abstract

Trichomes hold significance in leaves by minimising water loss, providing UV protection, inhibiting herbivores, aiding temperature regulation, and enhancing surface area. The morphological diversity and density of glandular and non-glandular trichomes on Plectranthus amboinicus obtained from five Southern India provinces were studied. Mature leaf samples of P. amboinicus were collected and their ecological parameters (soil and temperature properties) were recorded. The samples were examined under a light microscope to identify and quantify 13 types of trichomes (glandular and non-glandular). Population L-5 consistently recorded high trichome density. Non-glandular trichomes appeared more abundant, dense and pilose than glandular trichomes, with occurrence only on the abaxial leaf surface. Environmental factors influenced trichome variations, including elevated temperature, soil electrical conductivity properties, and pH. These ecological deviations are reflected in the anatomical insights of the species.