Endocarp development in Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae)

The endocarp has taxonomic importance in Anacardiaceae and the study of its development is essential in order to identify its structure and whether it belongs to the Anacardium-type or Spondias-type. The placentation region is the ideal location for endocarp analysis. The fruits of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi are drupes and the endocarp originates exclusively from the epidermis of the locular cavity. The periclinal divisions, responsible for endocarp formation, begin at anthesis, and finish within 72 hours. During this phase, the innermost cells of the ovarian mesophyll and the cells of the locular epidermis have similar structures. The endocarp develops in three organized layers of sclereids, making it the Anacardium-type. This endocarp differs from those previously described with four cell layers that include the crystalliferous layer, revealing a different pattern of development.