Microhistological References of Plants Available for Ungulates in Sonora, Mexico

Abstract

The microhistological technique is the most popular methodology used to determine the wild and domestic ungulates diet; its success depends on the development of a reliable reference catalog.

Objective: To describe and analyze the epidermal structures of the plants available for wild and domestic ungulates in Sonora, Mexico, using the microhistological technique.

Methodology: A comprehensive collection of the plants available for wild and domestic ungulates was carried out at UMA Rancho Noche Buena, in order to subsequently identify their genus and species. Plant structures were analyzed with the modified microhistological technique, scraping the beam and underside cuticle of leaf plants. In addition, at least one photograph was taken to characterize them.

Results and Discussion: The epidermal structures of 95.95% of the analyzed plants were observed with the microhistological technique and its modification. The distinctive structures of 74 plant species were identified, in order to describe the main characteristics of each species. A catalog of microhistological references was developed from the data collected; it included information about the morphology and arrangement of structures such as: epidermal cells, stomata and trichrome. A difference was found between the beam and underside of the leaves in 23% of the species.

Conclusion: A reliable microhistological reference catalog should consider possible differences between the beam and underside of the leaves of plants.