Cross-Sectional Anatomy of Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) Culms

Description of cross-sectional anatomy of culm and anatomic traits of 25 wheat genotypes (Rht1, Rht2, rht semi dwarf & rht tall)) were studied. Gross anatomy of internodes was described & 35 anatomic traits were measured. Rht1 and Rht2 genotypes are less prone to lodging. Significant influence of dwarfing genes (Rht1 & Rht2) on the expression of various traits including anatomical traits has been confirmed. Rht1 and Rht2 genotypes have stiff culm compared to rht. In general hypodermis consists of sclerenchyma fibrous layer. VB arranged in two circles, inner circle VB is more in basal internodes. Inner ring VB found in two sizes, large & small. VBA, PA, MXVWT and MXVWA are variable. Coalesce vascular bundles are more in the basal two internodes. Occurrences of coalesce vascular bundles correlated with the internode length and more in the rht genotypes. Abnormally developed VB were more in basal internodes of rht genotypes. VB with no phloem, only single metaxylem vessel, two unequal size metaxylem vessel, no protoxylem components etc were found in very low frequency. Anatomic traits have significant relation with LI, culm traits, & agronomic traits which has been discussed.