Ovule, embryo sac, embryo, and endosperm development in leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula)

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) is a noxious, invasive weed that dominate s many agriculturally important regions. While many research efforts are cu rrently aimed at controlling the spread of this plant, relatively little is known about its sexual reproductive: biology especially from a structural perspective. This report describes key features of ovule development, embry ogenesis, and endosperm formation in leafy spurge. Ovules are anatropous, b itegmic, and form a zigzag micropyle. A distinct elaisome (caruncle) and hy postase are formed as ovules mature. Obturators are present and are derived from placental tissue. The embryo sac conforms to the Polygonum type. A si ngle embryo is formed in each seed and stores nutrients primarily as globoi d protein bodies. Endosperm is persistent and also contains protein bodies as its primary nutrient reserve. Preliminary structural evidence is present ed that indicates the potential for apomixis.