Complex oil bodies (original) (raw)

The oil bodies of liverworts, occasionally dubbed “complex” for distinction, are unique organelles exclusive to the Marchantiophyta. They are markedly different from the oil bodies found in algae and other plants in that they are membrane-bound, and are not associated with food storage. The organelles are variable and present in an estimated 90% of liverwort species, often proving taxonomically relevant. As a whole, the formation and function of the organelles are poorly understood. Complex oil bodies are recognized as sites of isoprenoid biosynthesis and essential oil accumulation, and have been implicated with anti-herbivory, desiccation tolerance, and photo-protection.