The haploid and diploid chromosome numbers of
Asteracantha longifolia Nees., are 16 and 32 respectively.
The floral parts develop in the order calyx, andrœcium, corolla, and gynœcium. The anatomy of the stem, root and leaf and
the morphology of the thorns have been described.
The development of the micro- and megaspores is traced. In the embryo development suspensor haustorium and micropylar endosperm
haustorium have been observed. The endosperm is cellular and the micropylar haustorium is bi-nucleate.
The morphology of the jaculator is described.
In regard to the position of the genus in the family correlation between Hobein’s classification on the basis of cystolith
features and the chromosome numbers is suggested.
Communicated by Prof. T. S. Raghavan
Thesis (in part) approved for the degree of Master of Science of the Annamalai University.