Anatomical and functional differences and nyctinastic leaf movements inChenopodium albumL. andChenopodium hircinumSchrad. (Chenopodiaceae)

The anatomical structure of the leaves ofChenopodium albumL. andChenopodium hircinumSchrad. has been examined. Leaf chlorophyll content (Chl), specific leaf area (SLA), specific leaf weight (SLA−1) and nitrogen content (N2) were estimated in both species. Chl, SLA and N2were greater inC. albumthan inC. hircinum. SLA−1data showed thatC. albumis more efficient thanC. hircinum, because the former invests smaller quantities of dry weight to achieve a square centimetre of leaf area. The possible effects of Chl, N2and leaf anatomy on efficient gas exchange are discussed. The presence of nyctinastic leaf nocturnal movements was detected in both species. The meaning of this is discussed in relation to the prevention of the loss of pollen grains.