Development of lignin in Themeda triandra, Cymbopogon plurinodis and Eragrostis lehmanniana

Abstract

The amount and distribution of lignin in three grass species was determined. Two climax species, Themeda triandra and Cymbopogon plurinodis and one pioneer species, Eragrostis lehmanniana were used in the investigation. Leaf samples of the three grass species were taken at four stages of growth and samples of the culms we taken at two positions from the culm and during the four growth stages. Coloured sections were made and the lignified area of each section was determined. The lignin content of the leaves and culms of Themeda, Cymbopogon and Eragrostis increases as the plant matures. The leaves and culms of Eragrostis contain more lignin than do those of Themeda and Cymbopogon during most growth stages.

Keywords: grass species|plants|culms|growth stages|leaves|investigations|climax species|lignin|development|pioneer species