Epicuticular Wax Hydrocarbons of Ericaceae in Germany

Abstract

Abstract Alkane distribution patterns were determined in the epicuticular wax of 7 species of Ericaceae, including 5 species from more than one location. Results showed good agreement between sam­ples of any given species from different locations; thus any differences in environmental condi­tions including altitude were insufficient to affect the alkane patterns. Average chain length was highest in Calluna vulgaris and lowest in Vaccinium uliginosum.