Scanning electron microscope studies on leaf surface of some pearl millet genotypes in relation to transpiration

Scanning Electron Microscope studies were undertaken to observe differences in epicuticular wax structure among group of pearl millet genotypes. Results obtained revealed that structure of wax differed among the genotypes. Variation in wax structure was also found between adaxial and abajdal leaf surfaces. Adaxial surface showed the presence of both crystalline wax (single granular layer) and rodlet layers, whereas abaxial surface showed the presence of crusted (wavy) layer. Thus, the wax structure observed may be classified in to three distinct types: (i) single granular crystals, (ii) rodlets, and (iii) crusty (wavy) type. These differences in wax structure were examined in relation to the rate of transpiration.