Young stem and leaf anatomy of 15 Malagasy-endemic Diospyros species (Ebenaceae): taxonomic implications.

This article focuses on the anatomical study of young stems and leaves of 15 endemic Diospyros species from Madagascar, a genus that includes potential sources of ebony wood, many of which are threatened by illegal logging. Using standard anatomical methods and statistical analyses, the study identifies distinctive features—such as leaf midrib shape, petiole vascularization patterns, presence of extrafloral nectaries, epidermal cell size and stratification, and stem indumentum—that can aid in species delimitation and support taxonomic identification of standing trees. The research provides the first detailed anatomical descriptions for these species and proposes an identification key based on these traits, aiming to enhance sustainable management and conservation efforts. The study also highlights the potential of anatomical data to complement traditional morphological taxonomy and plans to extend this approach to other Malagasy Diospyros species.