Morphology, structure and distribution of floral trichomes in Coccinia grandis (L.) voigt. (Cucurbitaceae)

Trichomes are epidermal appendages found in plant parts, have an important role in growth, development and pollination. The present study have been investigated the morphology, structure and distribution of trichomes on the reproductive parts of Coccinia grandis, a dioecious species in Cucurbitaceae, using micro and macroscopic studies. On the basis of structure and function, the epidermal hairs are classified under glandular and non-glandular trichomes. Three types of glandular (peltate, capitates and conoidal) and four types of morphologicaly distinct non-glandular hairs were observed. Distribution of hairs varies according to parts of flower. Non-glandular hairs developed earlier and their density reduces in later stages except in corolla, whereas glandular hairs were predominant in mature flowers. The study pointed out that the floral trichomes in Coccinia grandis, play an important role in effective pollination rather mechanical support.

Floral trichomes in Coccinia grandis demonstrated an uneven distribution on different floral parts during the floral morphogenesis.

They exhibit great structural diversity, include both glandular and non-glandular hairs and have different functions on each floral whorls ranging from mechanical support to pollination.