Investigation of similarities between <i>Clappertonia ficifolia</i> (Willd.) Decne. and <i>Urena lobata</i> L. based on morphology and distribution

Abstract

Clappertonia ficifolia (Willd.) Decne. and Urena lobata L. are pantropical and indigenous African species with high socioeconomic importance, especially as sources of food and fiber. In this study, both species were investigated with respect to their shared similarities, habitat and geographical distribution. Qualitative and quantitative data on the vegetative and floral parts were recorded. Field records for various habitats and geographical distribution were made. Morphologically, both species have Malvoid leaf type, bristle fruits, simple to lobed (3-7) leaves, pubescent to tomentose vestiture with multiple branching patterns and are inhabitants of tropical evergreen forests. Both species differ in their inflorescence, fruit shape, number and metric measurements of their floral parts. U. lobata has secretory glands (1-3), axillary cyme to rarely solitary inflorescence, round fruits and 5 fused petals while C. ficifolia has no secretory gland, terminal, solitary to rarely paired inflorescence, oblong fruits, and 4 free petals and sepals. Clappertonia ficifolia is an indicator species for seasonally swamp forests and flowers when the forest is flooded. The similarities recorded for these species are a guide to their systematics. Although these species are found in a range of habitats and have a wide geographical distribution, their conservation is recommended.