Abstract
Trichomes, specialized epidermal structures on plant surfaces, are integral to plant defense and adaptation. However, their elemental composition in Solanum species remains understudied. This research investigates the trichomes' elemental compositions from five Solanum species—Solanum berthaultii, Solanum galapagense, Solanum lycopersicum, Solanum pennellii, and Solanum tuberosum—using herbarium samples from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Samples were prepared using standard coating techniques with a Quorum-Q150T ES series and imaged under a Hitachi Regulus 8230 SEM with a 5 kV electron beam. Elemental compositions were analyzed using SEM-EDS with an Oxford EDS detector and BSE detector. EDS spectra were acquired from the base, midsection, and tip of the trichomes and processed using AZtech software. Results revealed significant variations in elemental content among the five Solanum species. S. berthaultii trichomes showed high potassium levels, especially at the tips, indicating a role in osmoregulation and defense. S. galapagense exhibited notable chlorine and calcium presence, suggesting ionic balance and pest deterrence. S. lycopersicum and S. pennellii had higher silicon concentrations in midsections and tips, enhancing structural integrity and herbivory resistance. S. tuberosum displayed significant variability in calcium, particularly at the base, highlighting its role in cellular structure and rapid damage response. This study provides detailed insights into the elemental strategies of Solanum species trichomes, contributing to our understanding of their ecological and physiological roles. The findings underscore the importance of elemental composition in plant adaptation and evolution, offering a foundation for future research in plant defense mechanisms and environmental interactions.