The Cellular Structure of Cork from Quercus Suber L.

Abstract

The main characteristics of the cellular structure of cork from Quercus suber L. are reviewed and complt;mented with new observations of virgin and reproduction cork by scanning electron microscopy. Particular emphasis is given to cell geometry and topology and to the corrugations that are observed in the cell walls. The effect of the growth season in these features is described. Large variations in cell size, wall thickness and corrugations are reported.