Research Article

Anatomic changes due to interspecific grafting in cassava (Manihot esculenta)

Published: May 31, 2011
Genet. Mol. Res. 10 (2) : 1011-1021 DOI: https://doi.org/10.4238/vol10-2gmr1138
Cite this Article:
N. Bomfim, D.G. Ribeiro, N.M.A. Nassar (2011). Anatomic changes due to interspecific grafting in cassava (Manihot esculenta). Genet. Mol. Res. 10(2): 1011-1021. https://doi.org/10.4238/vol10-2gmr1138
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Abstract

Cassava rootstocks of varieties UnB 201 and UnB 122 grafted with scions of Manihot fortalezensis were prepared for anatomic study. The roots were cut, stained with safranin and alcian blue, and examined microscopically, comparing them with sections taken from ungrafted roots. There was a significant decrease in number of pericyclic fibers, vascular vessels and tyloses in rootstocks. They exhibited significant larger vessels. These changes in anatomic structure are a consequence of genetic effects caused by transference of genetic material from scion to rootstock. The same ungrafted species was compared. This is the first report on anatomic changes due to grafting in cassava.

Cassava rootstocks of varieties UnB 201 and UnB 122 grafted with scions of Manihot fortalezensis were prepared for anatomic study. The roots were cut, stained with safranin and alcian blue, and examined microscopically, comparing them with sections taken from ungrafted roots. There was a significant decrease in number of pericyclic fibers, vascular vessels and tyloses in rootstocks. They exhibited significant larger vessels. These changes in anatomic structure are a consequence of genetic effects caused by transference of genetic material from scion to rootstock. The same ungrafted species was compared. This is the first report on anatomic changes due to grafting in cassava.