THE TRANSLATOR OF RAPHIONACME (PERIPLOCACEAE)

The translators of 32 species of the genus Raphionacme Harv. (Periploc aceae) are presented. In each flower there are five translators, alter nating with the anthers. Translators consist of three morphological pa rts, namely spoon, stalk and adhesive disc. The spoon varies in shape, the most common forms are elliptic and cordate (broadly ovate). In a number of species, the translator is less specialized with no demarcat ion between spoon and stalk. Raphionacme abyssinica Chiov. and R. caer ulea E.A. Bruce can be identified by their distinctive translator morp hology. The remainder of the species can be divided into two groups ac cording to the form of the spoon. Ultrastructurally the translator con sists of a solid layer and adhesive material.