Seedling morphology and its potential in taxonomic studies in Indian Flora*

Investigations on seedling morphology in the context of taxonomy have emerged as a new discipline, particularly with reference to Indian Botany. Juvenile characters of flowering plants have largely been ignored in taxonomic studies, although these are of potential value as marker characters for identification of plants at seedling stage, i.e. much before flowering and fruiting. There are recognised terms and terminology in this regard which can be used to facilitate seedling morphological research. There are considerable developments on seedling studies at the international level, but the national scenario is comparatively poor. In the present paper, different aspects of seedling morphological studies related to taxonomy have been presented. In addition, the utility of seedling studies in conservation, forestry research, reintroduction programmes, and weed control have been emphasized. Seedling data also assist in drawing phylogenetic interpretation.