Morphological studies of the ligules of selected Indian species of Selaginella (Selaginellaceae)

摘要: Abstract The article presents the results of a study ligule morphology both vegetative and reproductive leaves four species Selaginella, i.e. S. delicatula, ganguliana, plana tenera, occurring in India. Ligules tenera are described for first time, occurrence shuttlecock-like ligules is time. Ligule shape generally constant across studied but some minor morphological variations observed within species. However, combination with other characters, may be useful tool taxonomic delimitation closely related Selaginella In addition, we propose that size influenced by habitat conditions, whereas presence glandular cells at their tip margins possibly indicate water secreting function.