Sherif Sharawy - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Sherif Sharawy

Research paper thumbnail of Phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitudinal gradient in Salma Mountains – Saudi Arabia

Global Ecology and Conservation, 2021

Abstract This study was conducted to assess the phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitu... more Abstract This study was conducted to assess the phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitudinal gradient in Salma Mountains, a naturally protected habitat in Ha’il region in the north of Saudi Arabia. Seventeen (17) sampling sites covering three altitudinal zones (i.e. valley, foot and top mountain) were randomly selected within the study area. Within each site and altitudinal zone, the floristic composition and the potential plant species of economic values were assessed and evaluated. A total number of 163 plant species belong to 101 genera and 41 families were identified in this study. Their economic values were also classified into forage (32%), edible (8.7%), medicinal (21.3%), ornamental (30.7%), weeds (18%) and rare species (14%). In addition, results obtained from different altitudinal zones of Salma Mountains, showed that 24 species were spread in the adjacent valley to the mountains, where 32 species spreading at the foot of the mountains and 40 found occupying the top of the mountains. The rest of species have been found to occupy larger geographical distribution in all altitudinal parts. Across the altitudinal gradients, species richness has been found to be consistent with a monotonically increasing pattern with a high richness at high altitudes. The current study suggests that such naturally protected ecosystem can provide a refuge for native plant species and serve as seed bank for a future restoration program in Ha’il region and other similar habitats in Saudi Arabia.

Research paper thumbnail of Phytochemical screening of different organic crude extracts from the stem bark of Ziziphus spina-christi (L.)

Biomedical Research, 2018

Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) (Rhamnaceae family) is a subtropical plant known as 'Nabq' or 'Sidr' ... more Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) (Rhamnaceae family) is a subtropical plant known as 'Nabq' or 'Sidr' which is used for various medicinal purposes. It has used in folk medicine in pain related ailments throughout these regions. Aim of our work is to phytochemically investigate the plant's bark in our laboratory with Chromatographic approach. The crude ethanol extract of dried bark of Z. spina-christi (L.) was fractionated by diethyl ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and finally with n-butanol. Finally the fractions were investigated for the chemical constituents by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Thirty six compounds from the four fractions of the stem bark of Z. spina-christi (L.) have been identified and recognized, especially betulin, quercetin, stigmasterol, sitosterol, ethyl oleate and phytol by means of GC-MS analyses.

Research paper thumbnail of Inaccessible Zones of Jabal Salma, Ha’Il Region in Saudi Arabia: A Reservoir for Native Seed Species

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, 2018

A reservoir in the current study describes where endemic plants are most likely to thrive and pro... more A reservoir in the current study describes where endemic plants are most likely to thrive and provide natural gene bank for native seed species. Twelve sites representing different altitudinal zones of Jabal Salma in Ha'il region, Saudi Arabia were regularly visited for two consecutive years. From each site 2-5 locations were investigated for floristic composition and types of vegetation. During the study, the presence of total 150 species representing 39 families was recorded. Among the reported species, the highest number of species (25 species) were belong to the family Asteraceae which was followed by the family Brassicaceae, (17 species), Fabaceae (14 species), Boraginaceae (11 species), Caryophyllaceae (10 species) and finally Poaceae (9 species). However, 15 other families including Acanthaceae, Convolvulaceae, Moraceae, Nyctaginaceae and Primulaceae, were monospecific which represented by only a single species. In addition, the effect of elevation on plant species distribution along altitudinal gradient of Jabal Salma has been noticed clearly in this study. According to the current findings, Jabal Salma can be strongly considered as a reservoir for native seed species as it provides refuge for 21 endangered species, 43 medicinal species, 45 ornamental species, 48 forage species and 13 edible species. However, despite accessibility difficulties, Jabal Salma "unfortunately" is not well protected against invasive species where 27 exotic species where recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of The Nature of the Inferior Ovary in Some Monocotyledonous Families

Journal of Plant Development, 2018

The floral vasculature aspects of twenty-four species belonging to six monocotyledonous families ... more The floral vasculature aspects of twenty-four species belonging to six monocotyledonous families are dealt with. These selected taxa include 23 horticulture species cultivated in Egypt and the remainders is among the wild flora of Egypt. A great attention has been focused by phylogenetists on the position of the ovary with respect to the other parts of the flower. In this connection, the nature of the inferior ovary is generally discussed on the basis of two theories; appendicular and axial. It is fortunate that the vascular skeleton can still be regarded as the most conservative character and that it may be rather conclusive in the determination of the nature of the inferior ovary. In the present study, the different patterns of floral vascularization are presented in cumulative tables and figures to facilitate the comparative study. Moreover, an interpretation to the observed variations is also tried to reach at the relations between the taxa studied and to determine the nature of the hypanthium.

Research paper thumbnail of Phytochemical, antimicrobial and cytotoxic evaluation of <i>Indigofera serpentinicola</i>

Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology, 2015

Methanol and aqueous root extracts of Indigofera serpentinicola were investigated for their phyto... more Methanol and aqueous root extracts of Indigofera serpentinicola were investigated for their phytochemical, antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tanins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, phenols, reducing sugars oils and fats in both extracts. Flavanoids were only detected in the methanolic extract. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The extracts showed low activity against Staphylococus aureus, Cornybacterium diptheriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella enterica and no activity against Escherichia coli. The diameters zones of inhibition ranged between 3-10 mm. The aqueous extract had higher activity showing zones of inhibition of 10 mm against S. enterica. Brine shrimp lethality test showed LC50 values which ranged from 0.079-0.158 mg/mL, showing that the extracts were highly toxic.

Research paper thumbnail of Two New Records of Astragalus Species of the Section Chronopus Bge. And Harpilobus Bge. In Saudi Arabia

Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences, 2014

Astragalus trigonus DC. and Astragalus trimestris L. are new records in Saudi Arabia. They belong... more Astragalus trigonus DC. and Astragalus trimestris L. are new records in Saudi Arabia. They belong to sections Chronopus Bge. and Harpilobus Bge.

Research paper thumbnail of Floral Anatomy of Alpinia Speciosa and Hedychium Coronarium (Zingiberaceae) with Particular Reference to the Nature of Labellum and Epigynous Glands

The floral anatomy of Alpinia speciosa Schum. and Hedychium coronarium Koenig. (Zingiberaceae) wa... more The floral anatomy of Alpinia speciosa Schum. and Hedychium coronarium Koenig. (Zingiberaceae) was investigated for an understanding of the structure and nature of the labellum and epigynous glands. The observation presented in this study supported the classical view of the labellum as a double structure rather than a triple or five-parted structure, as were proposed previously. The dorsal carpellary bundles in the studied species only continue into the style, fade out in the stigmatic tissue without feeding sepals or labellum as suggested in the previous studies. The glands in both studied species are found with very prominent masses of vascular tissue. The presence of vascular tissue seems to be connected with the more organized nature of the gland. Furthermore, the present study appears that the glands are not merely epidermal emergence of the ovary and similar to nectarines which may be vascularized.

Research paper thumbnail of Relationships of <i>Astragalus</i> L. in section Sesamei based on morphological criteria and molecular markers

Bangladesh Journal of Plant Taxonomy, 2014

The relationships among five species and two varieties of Astragalus L. in the section Sesamei (F... more The relationships among five species and two varieties of Astragalus L. in the section Sesamei (Fabaceae) from Egypt and Saudi Arabia have been reassessed based on morphological variation and molecular polymorphism as revealed by RAPD and ISSR fingerprinting. The analysis of morphological variation delimited the examined taxa into two groups; one comprising samples representing A. sinaicus, A. asterias and A. schimperi, and the other is comprised of two samples of A. stella and six samples representing A. tribuloides. The grouping of A. asterias and A. schimperi based on morphological criteria indicates affinities between them that were not reflected in their previous treatments. Both morphological criteria and molecular markers indicated considerable distance between the samples of A. stella and A. tribuloides. The multiform nature of A. tribuloides is confirmed as A. tribuloides var. mareoticus is clearly differentiated from the type A. tribuloides and A. tribuloides var. minutus....

Research paper thumbnail of Systematic Revision of Erodium species in Egypt as Reflected by Variation in Morphological Characters and Seed Protein Electrophoretic Profile

International Journal of Botany, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Karyotype Analysis and Systematic Relationships in the Egyptian Astragalus L. (Fabaceae)

International Journal of Botany, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic Relationships of Some Taxa of Subfamily Asclepiadoideae (Apocynaceae) as Reflected by Morphological Variations and Polymorphism in Seed Protein and RAPD Electrophoretic Profile

International Journal of Botany, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of Numerical taxonomic evaluation of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals in the leaves of certainFicus species (Moraceae)

Feddes Repertorium, 2004

The type and the distribution of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals were investigated... more The type and the distribution of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals were investigated in the leaves of 33 taxa of Ficus belonging to the three subgenera Urostigma, Ficus and Sycomorus for a speculation to the inter-subgeneric affinity. Numerical analysis of 55 characters grouped the taxa under 13 groups. The sizes of the latter with respect to the number of taxa they contain were calculated. Some resultant groups comprised taxa from different subgenera. So far as the present data are concerned and in agreement with previous workers, the var. decora of Ficus elastica and var. comosa of Ficus benjamina are better raised to the specific levels F. decora HORT and F. comosa ROXB. respectively. Zusammenfassung Numerisch-taxonomische Auswertung von Calciumoxalat-und Calciumcarbonat-Kristallen in einigen Arten der Gattung Ficus (Moraceae) An den Blättern von 33 Taxa der Gattung Ficus aus den drei Subgenera Urostigma, Ficus und Sycomorus wurden die Art und die Verteilung von Calciumoxalat-und Calciumcarbonat-Kristallen untersucht, um ihre inter-subgenerische Verwandtschaft zu ermitteln. Nummerische Analysen von 55 Eigenschaften gestatten eine Unterteilung in 13 Gruppen. Der Umfang letzterer in Bezug auf die Anzahl der sie umfassenden Taxa wurde betrachtet. Einige dieser Gruppen umfassen Taxa aus unterschiedlichen Subgenera. Auf Grund der hier gewonnenen Daten und in Übereinstimmung mit früheren Bearbeitern werden Ficus elastica var. decora und F. benjamina var. comosa in den Artrang F. decora HORT bzw. F. comosa ROXB. erhoben.

Research paper thumbnail of Polymorphism in Seed Protein Electrophoretic Pattern and Species Relationships in the Genus Orobanche L

Polymorphism in the banding profiles of the electrophoretic separation of seed proteins are used ... more Polymorphism in the banding profiles of the electrophoretic separation of seed proteins are used to reassess the taxonomic relationships between 21 samples representing eight species of the genus Orobanche L. (Orobanchaceae) that were collected from different cultivated and wild host in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. A high degree of similarity in the banding profile of samples of the same species is revealed in the studied taxa confirming the validity of seed proteins as a source of taxonomic criteria. Moreover, nine bands are common to all samples of the studied 21 species which may be indicative of their common origin and support the view that the genus Orobanche is a monophyletic group. The analysis of results using the NTSYS-pc program and the UPGMA and NJ clustering methods support the delimitation of species of Orobanche in two sections Orobanche Wallr. and Trionychon wallr. Also, supports delimitation of the studied species in section Orobanche in three groups. Moreover the delimit...

Research paper thumbnail of Karyotypic studies of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae) in Saudi Arabia and their taxonomic significance

Taeckholmia, 2014

Chromosome numbers and karyotype criteria of nine species of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae... more Chromosome numbers and karyotype criteria of nine species of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae) in Saudi Arabia were investigated. Chromosomes counts were recorded in four species for the first time in this study. Chromosome number, based on x=7 has been found in the majority of the studied Cuscuta species. A diploid number (2n=14) was recorded in five species, while tetraploid number (2n=28) was recorded in two species whereas 2n=56 was recorded in C. campestris. However, 2n=30 based on x=6 was recorded in C. monogyna. The chromosomes in the studied species of Cuscuta are generally small with a mean size ranging between 0.74 and 1.10 μm. Short chromosomes were particularly found in C. planiflora (MCL=0.74 μm) and C. chinesis (MCL=0.79), whereas longer chromosomes were scored in C. campestris (MCL=1.10). The karyotype in the studied species is mostly comprised of metacentric to submetacentric chromosomes as indicated by their mean arm ratio that ranges between 1.31 in C. monogyna and 1.83 in C. planiflora. The degree of karyotype asymmetry is indicated by high values of TF% ranges between 28.33 in C. planiflora and 40.54 in C. campestris. The A1 value ranged between 0.22 in C. planiflora and 0.43 in C. palaestina. Among the examined species, karyotype features were used to assess the Sherif M. Sharawy 66 classification of the Cuscuta species in Saudi Arabia in the light of the current systems of classification.

Research paper thumbnail of The Effects of Hibiscus rosa sinunsis Extract on Sperm Parameters and Histopathology of Testis of Male Mice

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic relationships of some species of Orobanche L. evidence from RAPD-PCR and ISSR markers

Pakistan Journal of Botany

The taxonomic relationships among 25 samples representing nine species of Orobanche L. (Orobancha... more The taxonomic relationships among 25 samples representing nine species of Orobanche L. (Orobanchaceae) were determined by the analysis of morphological characters and molecular polymorphism using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR). In order to construct dendrogram elucidating the relationships among the examined taxa, the coded data were analyzed using the software package NTSYS-pc 2.1 based on the Neighborjoining (NJ) tree building method based on a distance matrix. The aim of this study is to develop taxonomic relationship based on morphological and molecular data, in order to obtain a more reliable taxonomic relationship of Orobanche species under study. The dendrogram produced by the analysis of the molecular data (RAPD and ISSR) resembled that constructed by NJ dendrogram for the morphological variation. The studied taxa were separated in two groups, the first comprised of the five species of section Trionychon (O. purpurea, O.lavandulacea, O. ramosa, O. mutelii and O. aegyptiaca) and the second comprised of the four species of section Orobanche (O.cernua, O. crenata, O. minor and O. pubescens). High similarity was detected between O. pubescens and O. minor. The results confirmed the close relationship between O. ramosa and O. mutelii. Moreover, this study demonstrated the grouping of the studied taxa in most cases by geographically isolated population.

Research paper thumbnail of A Systematic Revision on Caralluma Species of Saudi Arabia Based on Karyological and Molecular Data

Pakistan Journal of Botany

A systematic revision of 13 species of the genus Caralluma (Apocynaceae -Asclepiadoideae -Ceropeg... more A systematic revision of 13 species of the genus Caralluma (Apocynaceae -Asclepiadoideae -Ceropegieae) from the flora of Saudi Arabia based on the evaluation of karyological and molecular data was carried out. Karyotype criteria and polyploid variations were discussed. Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) techniques were also used in this study to distinguish these species. Karyotype features of the studied species and molecular data were used to reassess the relationships of the 13 species of Caralluma in the light of the current systems of classification.

Research paper thumbnail of Karyological Studies on the Flora of Saudi Arabia: 1- Caralluma Species and Taxonomic Relationships

A karyological study of 13 taxa of the genus Caralluma R. Brown (Asclepiadaceae) from different g... more A karyological study of 13 taxa of the genus Caralluma R. Brown (Asclepiadaceae) from different geographic origins of Saudi Arabia is presented. Chromosome counts are observed for eight species for the first time. All taxa were found to have a basic chromosome number of x = 11, on the other hand, somatic chromosome numbers were varied between 2n = 22 in eight taxa to 2n = 44 in five taxa. Most of taxa studied have karyotypes of metacentric to submetacentric chromosomes. Polyploidy numbers of chromosomes were recorded within the studied taxa of Caralluma as a tetraploid of 2n = 44 in C. quadrangula, C. retrospiciens, C. russeliana, C. shadhbana and C. subulata. Detailed karyotype features as total chromosome length (TCL), mean chromosome length (MCL) and karyotype asymmetry [mean arm ratio (MAR), total form percent (TF %), intrachromosomal asymmetry (A1) and interchromosomal asymmetry (A2)], are also described. The results of the present study confirm that x = 11 considered the basic...

Research paper thumbnail of Cytotaxonomical Investigations of the Tribes Asclepiadeae and Ceropegieae of the Subfamily Asclepiadoideae-Apocynaceae

Pakistan Journal of Botany

In this study, karyotype criteria of 27 accessions (17 taxa) of the two tribes Asclepiadeae (20 a... more In this study, karyotype criteria of 27 accessions (17 taxa) of the two tribes Asclepiadeae (20 accessions) and Ceropegieae (7 accessions) from Egypt and Saudi Arabia belonging to subfamily Asclepiadoideae are described and polyploid variations are also discussed. Detailed karyotype features, i.e. total chromosome length (TCL), mean chromosome length (MCL) and karyotype asymmetry expressed as arm ratio (MAR), total form percent (TF %), intrachromosomal asymmetry (A1) and interchromosomal asymmetry (A2), are also described. Karyotype features of the studied accessions were used to assess the tribal relationships within the subfamily Asclepiadoideae to differentiate between taxa that belonging to the tribes Asclepiadeae and Ceropegieae in the light of the current systems of classification. In addition, new chromosome counts of 16 taxa or accessions are reported here for the first time.

Research paper thumbnail of The assessment of the morpho-anatomical characters of the spermoderm in delimitation of Astragalus species growing in Egypt

The morphological and anatomical characters of the spermoderm of 26 taxa of Astragalus growing in... more The morphological and anatomical characters of the spermoderm of 26 taxa of Astragalus growing in Egypt were investigated for an accurate delimitation. Five sculpture types and four subtypes were recorded in the investigated taxa. The sculpture type was found to be fairly diagnostic in the separation of some varieties from the type species. Anatomically, the spermoderm consists of four layers. The thickening on the walls of the macrosclereids as well as the number and topography of the lumen of the cells were found to specific for the taxon. An identificatory key was constructed based on a combination of the morphological and anatomical characters.

Research paper thumbnail of Phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitudinal gradient in Salma Mountains – Saudi Arabia

Global Ecology and Conservation, 2021

Abstract This study was conducted to assess the phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitu... more Abstract This study was conducted to assess the phytodiversity distribution in relation to altitudinal gradient in Salma Mountains, a naturally protected habitat in Ha’il region in the north of Saudi Arabia. Seventeen (17) sampling sites covering three altitudinal zones (i.e. valley, foot and top mountain) were randomly selected within the study area. Within each site and altitudinal zone, the floristic composition and the potential plant species of economic values were assessed and evaluated. A total number of 163 plant species belong to 101 genera and 41 families were identified in this study. Their economic values were also classified into forage (32%), edible (8.7%), medicinal (21.3%), ornamental (30.7%), weeds (18%) and rare species (14%). In addition, results obtained from different altitudinal zones of Salma Mountains, showed that 24 species were spread in the adjacent valley to the mountains, where 32 species spreading at the foot of the mountains and 40 found occupying the top of the mountains. The rest of species have been found to occupy larger geographical distribution in all altitudinal parts. Across the altitudinal gradients, species richness has been found to be consistent with a monotonically increasing pattern with a high richness at high altitudes. The current study suggests that such naturally protected ecosystem can provide a refuge for native plant species and serve as seed bank for a future restoration program in Ha’il region and other similar habitats in Saudi Arabia.

Research paper thumbnail of Phytochemical screening of different organic crude extracts from the stem bark of Ziziphus spina-christi (L.)

Biomedical Research, 2018

Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) (Rhamnaceae family) is a subtropical plant known as 'Nabq' or 'Sidr' ... more Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) (Rhamnaceae family) is a subtropical plant known as 'Nabq' or 'Sidr' which is used for various medicinal purposes. It has used in folk medicine in pain related ailments throughout these regions. Aim of our work is to phytochemically investigate the plant's bark in our laboratory with Chromatographic approach. The crude ethanol extract of dried bark of Z. spina-christi (L.) was fractionated by diethyl ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and finally with n-butanol. Finally the fractions were investigated for the chemical constituents by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Thirty six compounds from the four fractions of the stem bark of Z. spina-christi (L.) have been identified and recognized, especially betulin, quercetin, stigmasterol, sitosterol, ethyl oleate and phytol by means of GC-MS analyses.

Research paper thumbnail of Inaccessible Zones of Jabal Salma, Ha’Il Region in Saudi Arabia: A Reservoir for Native Seed Species

Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, 2018

A reservoir in the current study describes where endemic plants are most likely to thrive and pro... more A reservoir in the current study describes where endemic plants are most likely to thrive and provide natural gene bank for native seed species. Twelve sites representing different altitudinal zones of Jabal Salma in Ha'il region, Saudi Arabia were regularly visited for two consecutive years. From each site 2-5 locations were investigated for floristic composition and types of vegetation. During the study, the presence of total 150 species representing 39 families was recorded. Among the reported species, the highest number of species (25 species) were belong to the family Asteraceae which was followed by the family Brassicaceae, (17 species), Fabaceae (14 species), Boraginaceae (11 species), Caryophyllaceae (10 species) and finally Poaceae (9 species). However, 15 other families including Acanthaceae, Convolvulaceae, Moraceae, Nyctaginaceae and Primulaceae, were monospecific which represented by only a single species. In addition, the effect of elevation on plant species distribution along altitudinal gradient of Jabal Salma has been noticed clearly in this study. According to the current findings, Jabal Salma can be strongly considered as a reservoir for native seed species as it provides refuge for 21 endangered species, 43 medicinal species, 45 ornamental species, 48 forage species and 13 edible species. However, despite accessibility difficulties, Jabal Salma "unfortunately" is not well protected against invasive species where 27 exotic species where recorded.

Research paper thumbnail of The Nature of the Inferior Ovary in Some Monocotyledonous Families

Journal of Plant Development, 2018

The floral vasculature aspects of twenty-four species belonging to six monocotyledonous families ... more The floral vasculature aspects of twenty-four species belonging to six monocotyledonous families are dealt with. These selected taxa include 23 horticulture species cultivated in Egypt and the remainders is among the wild flora of Egypt. A great attention has been focused by phylogenetists on the position of the ovary with respect to the other parts of the flower. In this connection, the nature of the inferior ovary is generally discussed on the basis of two theories; appendicular and axial. It is fortunate that the vascular skeleton can still be regarded as the most conservative character and that it may be rather conclusive in the determination of the nature of the inferior ovary. In the present study, the different patterns of floral vascularization are presented in cumulative tables and figures to facilitate the comparative study. Moreover, an interpretation to the observed variations is also tried to reach at the relations between the taxa studied and to determine the nature of the hypanthium.

Research paper thumbnail of Phytochemical, antimicrobial and cytotoxic evaluation of <i>Indigofera serpentinicola</i>

Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology, 2015

Methanol and aqueous root extracts of Indigofera serpentinicola were investigated for their phyto... more Methanol and aqueous root extracts of Indigofera serpentinicola were investigated for their phytochemical, antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tanins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, phenols, reducing sugars oils and fats in both extracts. Flavanoids were only detected in the methanolic extract. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The extracts showed low activity against Staphylococus aureus, Cornybacterium diptheriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella enterica and no activity against Escherichia coli. The diameters zones of inhibition ranged between 3-10 mm. The aqueous extract had higher activity showing zones of inhibition of 10 mm against S. enterica. Brine shrimp lethality test showed LC50 values which ranged from 0.079-0.158 mg/mL, showing that the extracts were highly toxic.

Research paper thumbnail of Two New Records of Astragalus Species of the Section Chronopus Bge. And Harpilobus Bge. In Saudi Arabia

Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences, 2014

Astragalus trigonus DC. and Astragalus trimestris L. are new records in Saudi Arabia. They belong... more Astragalus trigonus DC. and Astragalus trimestris L. are new records in Saudi Arabia. They belong to sections Chronopus Bge. and Harpilobus Bge.

Research paper thumbnail of Floral Anatomy of Alpinia Speciosa and Hedychium Coronarium (Zingiberaceae) with Particular Reference to the Nature of Labellum and Epigynous Glands

The floral anatomy of Alpinia speciosa Schum. and Hedychium coronarium Koenig. (Zingiberaceae) wa... more The floral anatomy of Alpinia speciosa Schum. and Hedychium coronarium Koenig. (Zingiberaceae) was investigated for an understanding of the structure and nature of the labellum and epigynous glands. The observation presented in this study supported the classical view of the labellum as a double structure rather than a triple or five-parted structure, as were proposed previously. The dorsal carpellary bundles in the studied species only continue into the style, fade out in the stigmatic tissue without feeding sepals or labellum as suggested in the previous studies. The glands in both studied species are found with very prominent masses of vascular tissue. The presence of vascular tissue seems to be connected with the more organized nature of the gland. Furthermore, the present study appears that the glands are not merely epidermal emergence of the ovary and similar to nectarines which may be vascularized.

Research paper thumbnail of Relationships of <i>Astragalus</i> L. in section Sesamei based on morphological criteria and molecular markers

Bangladesh Journal of Plant Taxonomy, 2014

The relationships among five species and two varieties of Astragalus L. in the section Sesamei (F... more The relationships among five species and two varieties of Astragalus L. in the section Sesamei (Fabaceae) from Egypt and Saudi Arabia have been reassessed based on morphological variation and molecular polymorphism as revealed by RAPD and ISSR fingerprinting. The analysis of morphological variation delimited the examined taxa into two groups; one comprising samples representing A. sinaicus, A. asterias and A. schimperi, and the other is comprised of two samples of A. stella and six samples representing A. tribuloides. The grouping of A. asterias and A. schimperi based on morphological criteria indicates affinities between them that were not reflected in their previous treatments. Both morphological criteria and molecular markers indicated considerable distance between the samples of A. stella and A. tribuloides. The multiform nature of A. tribuloides is confirmed as A. tribuloides var. mareoticus is clearly differentiated from the type A. tribuloides and A. tribuloides var. minutus....

Research paper thumbnail of Systematic Revision of Erodium species in Egypt as Reflected by Variation in Morphological Characters and Seed Protein Electrophoretic Profile

International Journal of Botany, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Karyotype Analysis and Systematic Relationships in the Egyptian Astragalus L. (Fabaceae)

International Journal of Botany, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic Relationships of Some Taxa of Subfamily Asclepiadoideae (Apocynaceae) as Reflected by Morphological Variations and Polymorphism in Seed Protein and RAPD Electrophoretic Profile

International Journal of Botany, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of Numerical taxonomic evaluation of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals in the leaves of certainFicus species (Moraceae)

Feddes Repertorium, 2004

The type and the distribution of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals were investigated... more The type and the distribution of calcium oxalate and calcium carbonate crystals were investigated in the leaves of 33 taxa of Ficus belonging to the three subgenera Urostigma, Ficus and Sycomorus for a speculation to the inter-subgeneric affinity. Numerical analysis of 55 characters grouped the taxa under 13 groups. The sizes of the latter with respect to the number of taxa they contain were calculated. Some resultant groups comprised taxa from different subgenera. So far as the present data are concerned and in agreement with previous workers, the var. decora of Ficus elastica and var. comosa of Ficus benjamina are better raised to the specific levels F. decora HORT and F. comosa ROXB. respectively. Zusammenfassung Numerisch-taxonomische Auswertung von Calciumoxalat-und Calciumcarbonat-Kristallen in einigen Arten der Gattung Ficus (Moraceae) An den Blättern von 33 Taxa der Gattung Ficus aus den drei Subgenera Urostigma, Ficus und Sycomorus wurden die Art und die Verteilung von Calciumoxalat-und Calciumcarbonat-Kristallen untersucht, um ihre inter-subgenerische Verwandtschaft zu ermitteln. Nummerische Analysen von 55 Eigenschaften gestatten eine Unterteilung in 13 Gruppen. Der Umfang letzterer in Bezug auf die Anzahl der sie umfassenden Taxa wurde betrachtet. Einige dieser Gruppen umfassen Taxa aus unterschiedlichen Subgenera. Auf Grund der hier gewonnenen Daten und in Übereinstimmung mit früheren Bearbeitern werden Ficus elastica var. decora und F. benjamina var. comosa in den Artrang F. decora HORT bzw. F. comosa ROXB. erhoben.

Research paper thumbnail of Polymorphism in Seed Protein Electrophoretic Pattern and Species Relationships in the Genus Orobanche L

Polymorphism in the banding profiles of the electrophoretic separation of seed proteins are used ... more Polymorphism in the banding profiles of the electrophoretic separation of seed proteins are used to reassess the taxonomic relationships between 21 samples representing eight species of the genus Orobanche L. (Orobanchaceae) that were collected from different cultivated and wild host in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. A high degree of similarity in the banding profile of samples of the same species is revealed in the studied taxa confirming the validity of seed proteins as a source of taxonomic criteria. Moreover, nine bands are common to all samples of the studied 21 species which may be indicative of their common origin and support the view that the genus Orobanche is a monophyletic group. The analysis of results using the NTSYS-pc program and the UPGMA and NJ clustering methods support the delimitation of species of Orobanche in two sections Orobanche Wallr. and Trionychon wallr. Also, supports delimitation of the studied species in section Orobanche in three groups. Moreover the delimit...

Research paper thumbnail of Karyotypic studies of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae) in Saudi Arabia and their taxonomic significance

Taeckholmia, 2014

Chromosome numbers and karyotype criteria of nine species of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae... more Chromosome numbers and karyotype criteria of nine species of the genus Cuscuta L. (Convolvulaceae) in Saudi Arabia were investigated. Chromosomes counts were recorded in four species for the first time in this study. Chromosome number, based on x=7 has been found in the majority of the studied Cuscuta species. A diploid number (2n=14) was recorded in five species, while tetraploid number (2n=28) was recorded in two species whereas 2n=56 was recorded in C. campestris. However, 2n=30 based on x=6 was recorded in C. monogyna. The chromosomes in the studied species of Cuscuta are generally small with a mean size ranging between 0.74 and 1.10 μm. Short chromosomes were particularly found in C. planiflora (MCL=0.74 μm) and C. chinesis (MCL=0.79), whereas longer chromosomes were scored in C. campestris (MCL=1.10). The karyotype in the studied species is mostly comprised of metacentric to submetacentric chromosomes as indicated by their mean arm ratio that ranges between 1.31 in C. monogyna and 1.83 in C. planiflora. The degree of karyotype asymmetry is indicated by high values of TF% ranges between 28.33 in C. planiflora and 40.54 in C. campestris. The A1 value ranged between 0.22 in C. planiflora and 0.43 in C. palaestina. Among the examined species, karyotype features were used to assess the Sherif M. Sharawy 66 classification of the Cuscuta species in Saudi Arabia in the light of the current systems of classification.

Research paper thumbnail of The Effects of Hibiscus rosa sinunsis Extract on Sperm Parameters and Histopathology of Testis of Male Mice

Research paper thumbnail of Taxonomic relationships of some species of Orobanche L. evidence from RAPD-PCR and ISSR markers

Pakistan Journal of Botany

The taxonomic relationships among 25 samples representing nine species of Orobanche L. (Orobancha... more The taxonomic relationships among 25 samples representing nine species of Orobanche L. (Orobanchaceae) were determined by the analysis of morphological characters and molecular polymorphism using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR). In order to construct dendrogram elucidating the relationships among the examined taxa, the coded data were analyzed using the software package NTSYS-pc 2.1 based on the Neighborjoining (NJ) tree building method based on a distance matrix. The aim of this study is to develop taxonomic relationship based on morphological and molecular data, in order to obtain a more reliable taxonomic relationship of Orobanche species under study. The dendrogram produced by the analysis of the molecular data (RAPD and ISSR) resembled that constructed by NJ dendrogram for the morphological variation. The studied taxa were separated in two groups, the first comprised of the five species of section Trionychon (O. purpurea, O.lavandulacea, O. ramosa, O. mutelii and O. aegyptiaca) and the second comprised of the four species of section Orobanche (O.cernua, O. crenata, O. minor and O. pubescens). High similarity was detected between O. pubescens and O. minor. The results confirmed the close relationship between O. ramosa and O. mutelii. Moreover, this study demonstrated the grouping of the studied taxa in most cases by geographically isolated population.

Research paper thumbnail of A Systematic Revision on Caralluma Species of Saudi Arabia Based on Karyological and Molecular Data

Pakistan Journal of Botany

A systematic revision of 13 species of the genus Caralluma (Apocynaceae -Asclepiadoideae -Ceropeg... more A systematic revision of 13 species of the genus Caralluma (Apocynaceae -Asclepiadoideae -Ceropegieae) from the flora of Saudi Arabia based on the evaluation of karyological and molecular data was carried out. Karyotype criteria and polyploid variations were discussed. Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) techniques were also used in this study to distinguish these species. Karyotype features of the studied species and molecular data were used to reassess the relationships of the 13 species of Caralluma in the light of the current systems of classification.

Research paper thumbnail of Karyological Studies on the Flora of Saudi Arabia: 1- Caralluma Species and Taxonomic Relationships

A karyological study of 13 taxa of the genus Caralluma R. Brown (Asclepiadaceae) from different g... more A karyological study of 13 taxa of the genus Caralluma R. Brown (Asclepiadaceae) from different geographic origins of Saudi Arabia is presented. Chromosome counts are observed for eight species for the first time. All taxa were found to have a basic chromosome number of x = 11, on the other hand, somatic chromosome numbers were varied between 2n = 22 in eight taxa to 2n = 44 in five taxa. Most of taxa studied have karyotypes of metacentric to submetacentric chromosomes. Polyploidy numbers of chromosomes were recorded within the studied taxa of Caralluma as a tetraploid of 2n = 44 in C. quadrangula, C. retrospiciens, C. russeliana, C. shadhbana and C. subulata. Detailed karyotype features as total chromosome length (TCL), mean chromosome length (MCL) and karyotype asymmetry [mean arm ratio (MAR), total form percent (TF %), intrachromosomal asymmetry (A1) and interchromosomal asymmetry (A2)], are also described. The results of the present study confirm that x = 11 considered the basic...

Research paper thumbnail of Cytotaxonomical Investigations of the Tribes Asclepiadeae and Ceropegieae of the Subfamily Asclepiadoideae-Apocynaceae

Pakistan Journal of Botany

In this study, karyotype criteria of 27 accessions (17 taxa) of the two tribes Asclepiadeae (20 a... more In this study, karyotype criteria of 27 accessions (17 taxa) of the two tribes Asclepiadeae (20 accessions) and Ceropegieae (7 accessions) from Egypt and Saudi Arabia belonging to subfamily Asclepiadoideae are described and polyploid variations are also discussed. Detailed karyotype features, i.e. total chromosome length (TCL), mean chromosome length (MCL) and karyotype asymmetry expressed as arm ratio (MAR), total form percent (TF %), intrachromosomal asymmetry (A1) and interchromosomal asymmetry (A2), are also described. Karyotype features of the studied accessions were used to assess the tribal relationships within the subfamily Asclepiadoideae to differentiate between taxa that belonging to the tribes Asclepiadeae and Ceropegieae in the light of the current systems of classification. In addition, new chromosome counts of 16 taxa or accessions are reported here for the first time.

Research paper thumbnail of The assessment of the morpho-anatomical characters of the spermoderm in delimitation of Astragalus species growing in Egypt

The morphological and anatomical characters of the spermoderm of 26 taxa of Astragalus growing in... more The morphological and anatomical characters of the spermoderm of 26 taxa of Astragalus growing in Egypt were investigated for an accurate delimitation. Five sculpture types and four subtypes were recorded in the investigated taxa. The sculpture type was found to be fairly diagnostic in the separation of some varieties from the type species. Anatomically, the spermoderm consists of four layers. The thickening on the walls of the macrosclereids as well as the number and topography of the lumen of the cells were found to specific for the taxon. An identificatory key was constructed based on a combination of the morphological and anatomical characters.