Leaf Anatomy of Australian Saltbushes in Relation to Photosynthetic Pathways

Abstract

The leaf anatomy of 44 members of the genus Atriplex endemic to Australia was examined. With 1 exception all members of the genus showed the Kranz type of leaf anatomy typical of plants with the C₄ photosynthetic pathway. Only A. australisica lacked Kranz anatomy and showed a C isotope discrimination ratio typical of plants with the C₃ photosynthetic pathway.