The influence of enhanced UV-B radiation on the surface micromorphology ofthe winter annual Malcolmia maritima (L.) R. Br. (Brassicaceae)

Light and scanning electron microscopy were used to study some aspects of t he surface micromorphology of Malcolmia maritima (L.) R. Br. grown in the f ield under ambient or ambient plus supplemental UV-B radiation, simulating a 15% ozone depletion over Patras (38 degrees 03' N, 29 degrees 01' E). The re was no effect of the UV-B radiation on trichome density of either leaves or fruits. However, a strong reduction in the percentage of branched trich omes was evident on fruits and the adaxial leaf surface. Epidermal papillae of petals were considerably swollen leading to a disappearance of inter-pa pillae spaces.