Calcium Oxalate Raphide Crystals and Crystalliferous Idioblasts in the Carpels of Ornithogalum caudatum

Abstract

Crystalliferous idioblasts commonly are found in groups of two or three cells in the peripheral region of the carpels Crystals, composed of calcium oxalate, usually are m well-organized bundles which develop within a matrix of protein and carbohydrate in the vacuole of each idioblast The matrix occurs around and between individual crystal chambers and contains spheres and tubules 5.4 nm in diameter The matrix changes in character and location with age Crystals form within their own individual chambers, each comprised of a series of lamellae The number of lamellae is variable The innermost lamella is different from the others in that it is apparently continuous The other lamellae are platelike and superficially resemble successive periderms. The lamellae may begin and/or terminate abruptly or they may anastamose Each lamella is composed of chains of spheres about 6 1 nm in diameter and is separated from adjacent lamellae by tubules 5.4 nm in diameter Both the crystals and slime body are absorbed during later stages of carpel maturation.