|
Burmannia tenella (Burmanniaceae) is the only entirely achlorophyllous member of its genus in the New World. However, closely related species also show remarkable reductions according to number and surface area of leaves, representing a conclusive model of how evolution may have taken place. It is very likely that many members of the New World Burmannias depend more on their mycotrophy than on own photosynthetical activity. The picture to your right is a close-up of an inflorescence. | |
| The roots of Burmannia tenella are thick and brittle. They form star-shaped root systems (not shown here) and are stuffed with fungal hyphae that grow within the cells. See the enormous volume of the root cortex, which is dedicated to host the fungus! In contrast, the central cylinder responsible for matter transport is minute. If you are interested to know more on this system please consult: |  |