Comparative Leaf Morpho- Anatomical and Phytochemical Studies of Three Species of Justicia : Justicia Insularis T. Anderson Justicia Flava Vahl and Justicia Secunda Vahl (acanthaceae)

This study present a comparative leaf morpho-anatomical and phytochemical studies of the three species of Justicia ; Justicia insularis Anderson, Justicia flava Vahl and Justicia secunda Vahl belonging to the family, Acanthaceae. The purpose of this study was to compare different features in the morpho-anatomical and phytochemical characteristics of the selected Justicia species. This study aids in the identification and classification of this three species of Justicia. Morphoanatomical studies involved detailed measurements and observations of various leaf parts including leaf base, leaf type, leaf apex, leaf margin, lateral veins etc. Microscopic examinations of the transverse section of the leaves and petioles of the three Justicia species were conducted to assess cellular structures, focusing on epidermal characteristics, vascular tissue arrangement, stomata type and glandular structures. The results revealed significant variations in the leaf morphology, with Justicia insularis exhibiting different morphological features, while Justicia flava and Justicia secunda has more morphological similarities. Anatomical features such as the thickness of the epidermal cell wall,presence of trichomes, and arrangement of vascular bundles were also documented. It was also shown that the three Justicia species possessed abaxial and adaxial surfaces,with exception to Justicia insularis that possessed only abaxial surface Phytochemical analysis were performed using spectrophotometric techniques to quantify the presence of secondary metabolites. The results indicated that Justicia insularis and Justicia flava had the highest concentration of the phytochemical being screened. While, Justicia secunda exhibited low level of the phytochemical and as well lack terpenoids too with Justicia flava.

The findings of this study underscore the morphological and chemical diversity within the Justicia genus, providing valuable insights into their ecological significance and potential medicinal applications.This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the Acanthaceae family and highlights the importance of comparative studies in understanding plant diversity and its applications.